Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca says the club will take a careful approach with Enzo Fernandez’s recovery ahead of their Champions League clash with Ajax, as injuries and red cards continue to disrupt the team’s rhythm.

Fernandez, who missed a week due to a knee issue, could make his return on Wednesday, but Maresca insists the Argentine midfielder won’t be rushed back.

“Enzo trained yesterday, and we’ll decide with him tomorrow,” Maresca told reporters on Tuesday. “It’s not something serious, but we just want to protect him.”

Chelsea’s injury list continues to grow, with defender Benoit Badiashile the latest to pick up a knock, making him the sixth player currently sidelined. Maresca admitted the situation has complicated squad planning, forcing late tactical adjustments before matches.

“It’s difficult because many of these injuries happen just a day or two before games,” he said. “We’re trying to adapt, but it’s challenging.”

Beyond injuries, Chelsea are also grappling with discipline issues after receiving four red cards in their last six matches.

“For sure, it’s something we can improve,” Maresca added. “I’m not the kind of manager who punishes players. Like with my kids, when they make mistakes, I try to teach, not punish. It’s the same with my players.”

Despite these challenges, Chelsea have started to find form again, winning their last three games in all competitions after a poor September that included a loss to Bayern Munich in the Champions League.

“We were not happy with the Bayern result, but we were happy with the performance,” Maresca said. “Ajax are a strong club with history in this competition, and we know they’ll come here to prove a point. We’ll try to do the same.”

Chelsea currently sit 18th in the Champions League table with three points from their opening two games, while Ajax are yet to register a point.