Mia Fishel, a Chelsea striker, sustains an anterior cruciate ligament injury while representing the USA in international matches.

Chelsea striker Mia Fishel has suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury while on international duty with the USA. The news comes as a blow to the Women’s Super League club, who will now be without Fishel for an extended period of time.

A statement from Chelsea read: “Mia will be assessed by a specialist in the coming days and will then begin her rehabilitation with the club’s medical team at Cobham. Everyone at Chelsea would like to wish Mia the very best for her recovery.”

Fishel, who joined Chelsea from Mexican club Tigres in the summer, has made a significant impact since her arrival. She has played 17 times in all competitions this season, scoring three goals. Her debut for the club saw her find the net in a 2-1 victory against Tottenham.

Unfortunately, this is not the first time Chelsea have been hit with an ACL injury this season. They previously lost Sam Kerr to the same injury during a warm weather training camp in Morocco in January. In response to Kerr’s absence, Chelsea made the record-breaking signing of Mayra Ramirez during the transfer window.

Despite these setbacks, Chelsea remain at the top of the Women’s Super League and are aiming to secure their fifth consecutive title. They are also still in contention for the FA Cup and League Cup. Manager Emma Hayes, who will be leaving the club to become the coach of the US Women’s National Team at the end of the season, is determined to lift her first UEFA Women’s Champions League trophy. Chelsea will face Ajax in the quarter-finals.

In light of Fishel’s injury, she has been replaced by Alex Morgan in the USA squad. The national team is set to kick off their Gold Cup campaign on Thursday against the Dominican Republic. Interim head coach Twila Kilgore expressed her disappointment for Fishel, praising her impact during the camp and her growth mindset. Kilgore believes Fishel will come back stronger and hopes she will be in contention for the next World Cup.

As Fishel begins her rehabilitation, the Chelsea faithful will be hoping for a swift recovery for the talented striker. Her absence will undoubtedly be felt, but the team remains focused on their goals for the season.

Meanwhile, Hayes prepares for an emotional farewell as she looks to end her tenure at Chelsea on a high before embarking on a new chapter with the USWNT.