Maxence Lacroix and Chelsea could pay the price for a busy international break

Writer James Fudge argues that Chelsea must carefully manage defender Maxence Lacroix's workload following heavy involvement during the international break with France. The center-back featured in three full 90-minute matches and made a substitute appearance in another under France manager Zinedine Zidane, raising concerns regarding potential fatigue and injury risks ahead of upcoming Premier League fixtures.

Fudge notes that Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso faces a difficult balancing act between addressing defensive vulnerabilities and preventing physical burnout. Because Chelsea does not have European competitions, the writer suggests Alonso should utilize squad rotation or early substitutions, potentially starting with the upcoming match against Bournemouth, to protect Lacroix.