Chelsea’s already precarious situation feels significantly worsened ahead of their trip to Sunderland, and the questions surrounding Xabi Alonso’s squad are mounting.

While the victory over Manchester United – a result that briefly lifted spirits – was a welcome one, the number of unavailable players is creating a serious headache for the manager.

It’s clear that Alonso is facing a prolonged period of disruption, and the immediate impact of key absences could significantly impact their league form.

The return of Emi Martinez is undoubtedly a positive, though the prospect of him wearing a protective mask after his fractured jaw adds a layer of concern.

However, even with Martinez back in goal, the midfield remains a significant weakness.

Jordan Henderson’s illness, while not a serious injury, is a blow, and the continued absence of key figures like Joao Pedro is a major factor.

Pedro’s injury, particularly, feels like a devastating setback, given his importance as a goalscorer.

Alonso’s cautious comments regarding his recovery timeline – “He has an injury on his thigh and he's going be out for a few weeks.

Let's see how many.

We don't want to predict on that” – suggest a potentially lengthy absence, and the impact on their attacking options will be keenly felt.

The situation is further complicated by the expected absence of Reece James, whose knee surgery will keep him out until mid-January, and the potential extended layoff for Maxence Lacroix.

These injuries, combined with the uncertainty surrounding Pedro, paint a picture of a squad struggling to maintain consistency.

While Alonso’s insistence on remaining competitive and “trying to win with the players we have available” is admirable, it’s a difficult task when so many vital components are missing.

Ultimately, Chelsea’s immediate challenge isn’t just about securing a victory against Sunderland; it’s about managing a crisis.

The club needs to demonstrate a clear plan for dealing with these injuries and finding solutions to bolster their squad, particularly in attacking positions, before the November international break.

Failure to do so could see them further slip down the Premier League table.

Source