Chelsea are sweating over the fitness of defender Antonio Rudiger who could miss the start of the new campaign.
The 26-year-old German international underwent knee surgery after he was forced off in the second half of the draw against Manchester United in April.
Rudiger’s rehabilitation is going as well, but the centre-back says he will not be rushing back ahead of schedule, as reported by the Telegraph.
That could rule him out of Chelsea opener agains Old Trafford on August 11 and the Super Cup against Liverpool just three days later in Istanbul.
Antonio Rudiger has been dogged with knee injuries throughout his career.
And after his decision to rush back last season to help Chelsea secure Champions League football backfired, it is understandable he will not want to take any risks with his recovery this time around.
Chelsea are also set to be without Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Callum Hudson-Odoi and Reece James for the start of the campaign.
Chelsea are unable to add sign a new player this summer window due to their transfer ban.
David Luiz ended speculation about his future at Stamford Bridge by signing a new two–year contract last month.
The Brazilian was out of contract this summer and turned down offers from Brazil, Qatar and his old club Benfica to stay in London.
Meanwhile, Andreas Christensen has revealed his desire to stay at Chelsea and Zouma could return from a successful loan at Everton.
