Chelsea’s 2025–26 campaign has taken a tough hit before it even found its rhythm. Portuguese midfielder Dário Essugo, just 20 years old, has been ruled out for the remainder of the calendar year after suffering a serious thigh injury while on duty with Portugal’s U21s.
Following surgery, the club confirmed he won’t return to action until at least January 2026.
Official Statement from the Club
“Midfielder Dário Essugo has undergone successful surgery on his thigh,” Chelsea announced. “The 20-year-old sustained the injury while representing Portugal’s U21s. After thorough medical evaluations, surgery was deemed necessary. Dário will now begin his recovery at Cobham, supported by the club’s medical staff.”
The player remained positive, despite the misfortune. “Unfortunately, during this international break with the National Team I felt something in my thigh that required surgery and will keep me out for a while. It’s frustrating to start the season like this, especially after already facing another setback not long ago. But I truly believe everything happens for a reason. God has a bigger plan. I’ll be back stronger,” he wrote on social media.
A costly summer signing sidelined
Essugo joined Chelsea this summer from Sporting CP in a $21.5 million deal (€20 million), and was expected to play a key role in manager Enzo Maresca’s rotation plans. His versatility made him an ideal backup for Moisés Caicedo, especially with Rómeo Lavia still struggling to recover from persistent muscle issues that sidelined him for most of last season.
Chelsea’s injury list keeps growing
Essugo’s setback adds to an already crowded treatment room at Stamford Bridge. He becomes the sixth player sidelined this season, joining Cole Palmer, Liam Delap, Rómeo Lavia, Benoît Badiashile, and Levi Colwill—who suffered a torn ACL in early August and is expected to miss significant time.
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get well soon champ