Is Marc Cucurella injured? Chelsea left-back injury latest ahead of Arsenal clash

Chelsea may be forced to make adjustments ahead of their upcoming clash against Arsenal as concerns mount over the availability of defender Marc Cucucurella.

The Spanish international has been a key figure in the Chelsea back line since his £60 million move from Brighton & H0v3 in 2022.

Chelsea have been without the defender since he was forced off in a 2-2 draw against Leeds United.

Since then, Cucurella has missed the FA Cup 4-0 victory against Hull City and a 1-1 draw against Burnley.

Chelsea are desperate to have their strongest lineup available to get back to winning ways, but it appears Cucurella will remain unavailable for the time being.

Chelsea coach Liam Rosenior said in his pre-match press conference, "I can't give an timeframe on Marc. He suffered a hamstring injury just before half-time in the Leeds game. It's a shame because he's an outstanding player, one of the best left-backs in the world."

Rosenior was quick to praise the depth of the squad, noting, "It's a shame not to have Marc available but we have Jorrel [Hato] and we have Malo [Gusto] who can play on that side, so we have really good players that can cover. Of course, the sooner Marc gets back, the better."

The injury is Cucurella's second hamstring injury this season after he was forced to miss two games around the festive period.

The defender has not missed a significant amount of time since December 2023 when he underwent ankle surgery, keeping him out for ten weeks.

Chelsea will hope Cucurella can return to full fitness soon as they look to secure a vital victory against Arsenal.