Manager Carlo Ancelotti will be in the Chelsea dugout for Sunday's Premier League showdown with Arsenal despite the death of his father.
Ancelotti's father, Giuseppe, passed away in Italy on Wednesday night following a lengthy illness.
"Carlo Ancelotti's father Giuseppe passed away in Italy last night aged 87 with his son at his side," read a club statement.
"Everyone at Chelsea Football Club sends our deepest condolences to Carlo and his family. They are all in our thoughts at this time.
"The funeral will take place in Italy on Saturday. Carlo will return to London for Sunday's match versus Arsenal."
Speaking recently, Ancelotti had admitted the difficultly he faced in balancing his personal and professional life at such a difficult time.
"My father is not well. He is an old man. He has a lot of problems. When possible I fly back to Italy to see him and he has good support from my sister," he explained.
"He has a lot of problems and it's tough emotionally when it's your father.
"But this is life and I have to do my best to stay close to him. Everyone at the club knows my situation and they have all given me good support."Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email