The true consequences of Chelsea's gruelling 2025 are beginning to emerge, as it has revealed that multiple first-team stars are playing through pain after a physically challenging few months which included the Blues winning the Club World Cup in difficult weather conditions in the US. Enzo Maresca's side were barely given enough time for a pre-season as a result and several injury issues have followed. Further first-team stars have had to push through the pain and continue to play.

Chelsea attacker Joao Pedro had a night to forget at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday against Benfica in the Champions League despite the 1-0 victory. The Brazil international arrived as a second-half substitute but was sent off deep into stoppage time after picking up two yellow cards and will now serve a ban. The sending off marred a good night for the Blues as they picked up their first Champions League win of the new season.

Chelsea looked to have stolen all three points over local rivals Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium, before a last-minute tap-in by Fabio Carvalho earned the Bees a 2-2 draw. The Blues had taken the lead thanks to second half goals by Cole Palmer and Moises Caicedo. The Blues had fallen behind to Kevin Schade's opener in the 29th minute.

Chelsea forward Joao Pedro endured a frightening moment during Brazil’s 3-0 World Cup qualifying win over Chile, collapsing and vomiting on the pitch after a heavy collision with Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli. The 23-year-old striker, who has enjoyed a flying start to life at Chelsea, required medical attention but later reassured fans about his condition.

Chelsea new boy Joao Pedro has revealed his dream of one day winning the Ballon d’Or, while explaining why he turned down a move to Newcastle. The 23-year-old has scored five goals in his first five starts for Chelsea to quickly become a key figure under Enzo Maresca.