Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has expressed concerns about the strain on his players, highlighting the difficulties of a 16-hour round-trip to Kazakhstan for a Conference League match, followed by a Premier League game against Brentford just three days later.
The team faces an eight-hour flight to Almaty for the match against Astana, which is being held there due to renovations at the team’s usual stadium, located 600 miles away.
The trip covers 3,700 miles (6,000 km) each way, with Chelsea expected to return to London early Friday morning before preparing for their Sunday evening match against Brentford.
Challenging Schedule and Conditions
Maresca acknowledged the tough travel schedule but stressed the team’s dedication. “An eight-hour flight one way isn’t normal for a game, but we have to go, play, and give it our best while also preparing for the next match,” he said.
The journey is further complicated by the need to avoid conflict zones in Ukraine, Russia, and Syria, requiring a non-direct flight path. Additionally, the weather in Almaty is expected to dip as low as -11°C, presenting further challenges. To cope with the time difference, Chelsea plans to remain on UK time during their 18-hour stay, despite Kazakhstan being five hours ahead.
Squad Rotation Plans
To manage player fatigue, Maresca has decided to rest several key players. England winger Noni Madueke will not travel, and Pedro Neto is suspended for the Sunday match. Several youth players, including Ato Ampah, Shumaira Mheuka, Harrison McMahon, Kaiden Wilson, Richard Olise, and Harrison Murray-Campbell, have been included in the squad.
Defender Josh Acheampong, 18, is expected to start on Thursday and is close to signing a new contract with the club.
However, key players like Cole Palmer, Romeo Lavia, Wesley Fofana, and Ben Chilwell are not registered for the Conference League and will not be involved.
“The players staying behind will train hard because we might need them on Sunday,” Maresca explained. “Ideally, we don’t want to use those who play Thursday in the Brentford match, but if needed, they will step up.”
Preparing for the Cold
Chelsea’s players are also preparing for the freezing conditions in Kazakhstan. Axel Disasi, a confirmed starter, said the team is ready for the challenge.
“We’ll wear extra gloves and focus on competing in the cold. It’s tough with the long flight and freezing temperatures, but we’re ready to fight and maintain our top spot,” he said.
Adjusted Kick-off for Brentford Match
To aid Chelsea’s recovery from their demanding travel schedule, the Premier League has moved the kick-off for the Brentford game to 19:00 GMT on Sunday.
Chelsea, currently second in the Premier League, four points behind Liverpool, will look to maintain their strong form despite the challenges posed by the Kazakhstan trip.
