The Argentina has been ruled out of Juventus’ Champions League meeting with Chelsea on Wednesday, and the Blues will also benefit from another absentee for the Italians
Juventus have been handed a huge double injury blow just days before their Champions League showdown with defending champions Chelsea after star man Paulo Dybala picked up an injury against Sampdoria.
The Argentine gave his side the lead early on against the Genoa-based side, but was forced off just 10 minutes later after picking up a muscular injury in a fairly innocuous challenge with Fabio Depaoli.
Dybala had to be comforted by team-mate Alvaro Morata as he limped off the pitch while crying into his shirt, scenes which will be of great concern to manager Massimiliano Allegri.
In the wake of Cristiano Ronaldo ‘s departure to Manchester United, Dybala is the star name in the Bianconeri’s attacking line.
But Chelsea will not have to worry about keeping the 27-year-old quiet when the two European giants meet on Wednesday night, after Allegri confirmed he would not be available.
And the Blues will be boosted by another absentee in the form of their former striker Morata, who also picked up an injury in the 3-2 victory over Sampdoria.
Allegri is likely to turn to Everton flop Moise Kean to lead the line for his side when they host Chelsea.
Dybala was apologetic to Juventus fans as he took to social media after the game, hinting that scans are needed before the extent of the injury is revealed.
“Sorry for leaving the field, but happy for the win,” he wrote.
“I’ll take my exams tomorrow, but I’m already thinking of returning as soon as possible.”
Juventus have endured a difficult start in their quest to wrestle the Serie A title back from last season’s champions Inter Milan, losing two and drawing the others in their opening four games before narrow wins over minnows Spezia and strugglers Samp.
Their Champions League campaign began with a comfortable 3-0 win over Malmo, but Chelsea will be a much sterner test for the Italians.
And Thomas Tuchel ‘s task is made easier by the absence of Dybala and Morata for their midweek meeting.
The Blues will be keen to bounce back at the first opportunity after slumping to a 1-0 home defeat at the hands of Manchester City on Saturday.
Tuchel himself will be especially keen to set the record straight after accepting full responsibility for the loss.
“We lacked a bit of freshness,” the German admitted.
“[N’Golo Kante] ill since some days and I decided to let him start, Jorginho had some problems, Thiago [Silva] could not start.
“Maybe this is on me, not the very best choices.”
