On November 4, 2025, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca confirmed that Pedro Neto will not be available for the club’s midweek UEFA Champions League fixture against Qarabag due to a minor fitness concern. Neto was absent from Tuesday’s training session at Cobham, sparking concerns among fans after he was substituted late in Chelsea’s 1–0 win over Tottenham.
The Portuguese winger’s absence is precautionary, as shared by Fabrizio Romano on his official X account, with Maresca assuring supporters that Neto is expected to return for the Premier League clash against Wolves at Stamford Bridge this weekend. Maresca emphasised that the club’s medical team advised rest to prevent aggravating the issue, describing Neto’s condition as nothing serious.
His expected recovery comes at a crucial time for Chelsea, who remain without Cole Palmer and Benoît Badiashile until December. Despite the setbacks, Maresca has maintained squad balance through rotation, making as many as ten changes across recent fixtures. SoftFootball reported that this strategy paid off handsomely in the Champions League, where Chelsea’s young stars dazzled in a dominant 5–1 victory over Ajax.
Neto, who joined Chelsea from Wolves in 2023, has been a consistent performer this season, contributing goals, assists, and relentless energy down the flank. His return against his former club will carry added emotion, particularly as Chelsea seek to bounce back from their recent home setback against Sunderland, a shock defeat that reignited the Premier League title race.
With Qarabag next and Wolves to follow, Chelsea’s medical updates offer reassurance as the club aims to sustain its winning momentum.
