The N17 faithful await further developments as the Italian tactician protects key assets ahead of the Chelsea clash.
The preseason tour brings massive excitement, but physical exhaustion remains a serious obstacle for the travelling squad. Roberto De Zerbi recently confirmed that extreme fatigue forced Micky van de Ven out of recent friendly matches. The centre back logged massive minutes last season.
His heavy workload carried directly into the summer. The defender featured in three matches at the 2026 World Cup before a penalty shootout elimination against Morocco. Linking up with his teammates for the New Zealand and Australia leg proved physically demanding.
The talented defender sat out fixtures against Auckland FC and Sydney FC as a strict precaution. The manager offered a calming update via SPURSPLAY. “Micky van de Ven also feels fatigue, but nothing important,” De Zerbi explained during his pre-match interview.
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Supporters also missed out on watching fresh summer signing Mateus Fernandes in action against Sydney FC. The fresh recruit previously introduced himself with a stunning strike during a victory over MK Dons back at base. The Portugal international then managed a substitute appearance in Auckland.
Unfortunately, the midfielder recently experienced tightness in his calf muscle. De Zerbi confirmed the player could technically face Chelsea, yet the staff refuses to gamble on his fitness. The pragmatic manager wants his players completely ready for the gruelling domestic campaign ahead.
“Mateus Fernandes can be available right now to play, but we don’t want to take any risks with him,” the boss added. Resting these stars guarantees a prepared roster.