According to a report by The Chelsea Chronicles on Thursday October 29, 2026, Chelsea supporters were left worried when Maxence Lacroix suffered a suspected hamstring injury during Wednesday’s Carabao Cup encounter against Liverpool at Anfield, raising concerns about the defender’s availability for upcoming fixtures.

The French centre-back pulled up in pain while moving backwards late in the first half, immediately grabbing his hamstring before limping off the pitch. His reaction suggested the problem could potentially keep him sidelined.

Lacroix’s injury is particularly concerning because of his impressive fitness record. Since joining Crystal Palace, the defender has established himself as a reliable presence, rarely missing matches through injuries and consistently delivering strong performances.

According to Transfermarkt statistics, Lacroix featured in 98 of Crystal Palace’s 105 matches across two seasons. His remaining absences resulted from rest or suspension, highlighting his importance and remarkable availability throughout that period.

Before moving to England, Lacroix made 130 appearances for Wolfsburg, missing 28 matches. However, just six absences were attributed to injuries or illness, demonstrating that serious fitness problems have rarely disrupted his career.

His previous injury record includes a shoulder problem towards the end of the 2022-23 campaign, muscular fatigue and a bout of COVID-19. The shoulder injury kept him unavailable for 71 days, although much of that period occurred during pre-season.

Chelsea must now determine whether this latest setback represents an isolated incident or the beginning of recurring fitness concerns. Medical assessments and scans will provide a clearer indication of the injury’s severity and expected recovery period.

Manager Xabi Alonso has yet to confirm how long Lacroix could remain unavailable. However, losing the £52 million summer signing would represent a significant setback, considering his consistent performances since arriving at Stamford Bridge.

Lacroix has arguably been Chelsea’s most dependable defender this season, even outperforming Levi Colwill in consistency. His potential absence leaves Alonso with difficult decisions as the club prepares for important Premier League matches.

Colwill could assume greater responsibility alongside available alternatives, including Josh Acheampong and Jorrel Hato. Nevertheless, Wesley Fofana’s inconsistent performances make the situation more complicated for Chelsea’s defensive department.

With Manchester United and Sunderland approaching, Lacroix’s possible absence threatens Chelsea’s defensive stability. Alonso will hope the injury proves minor, allowing his dependable defender to return quickly and help restore consistency.