UEFA Champions League 2025-26: Fernandez doubtful; Estevao and Gusto back for Chelsea vs Pafos

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez is doubtful for Wednesday’s Champions League home match against Cypriot side Pafos due to illness, but the club has been boosted by the returns of Estevao and Malo Gusto, manager Liam Rosenior said on Tuesday.

Estevao and Gusto were both forced to sit out Chelsea’s 2-0 Premier League win over Brentford at Stamford Bridge after falling ill, with several staff members also affected. Winger Jamie Gittens, who missed the last two games for the same reason, has now recovered and is available.

“Fernandez was ill yesterday and missed training,” Rosenior told reporters. “Estevao is back. Gittens is back. Gusto is involved again – another excellent player.

“There are a few coughing fits and we are working very hard to make sure the players are fit for the game.”

Chelsea suffered another setback when centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo was left offside after being forced off against Brentford.

READ | Chelsea beat Brentford 2-0 in manager Liam Rosenior’s Premier League debut

«Unfortunately for Tosin there is something in his hamstring that will rule him out for the next few weeks,» Rosenior added.

Rosenior, ‍41, was appointed on January 6 on a contract lasting until 2032 following the departure of Italian Enzo Maresca on New Year’s Day.

He is Chelsea’s fourth permanent manager since taking over from American Todd Boehly in 2022 and will take charge of his first Champions League match for west London on Wednesday.

Asked about the mid-season move and the opportunity to challenge for the Champions League with the two-time winner, Rosenior said: «It would be great. Hopefully you’ll be lucky for the third time, but you won’t be lucky if you win a Champions League.»

«I never limit the ambitions of my players. We have to concentrate on this match.»

Published on January 20, 2026