Chelsea has been hit with an untimely setback after star playmaker Cole Palmer was ruled out for at least three matches due to a fractured toe suffered in an accident at home. The 23-year-old had been close to returning from a groin injury, but this new issue will sideline him for a key stretch in the club’s season.
Manager Enzo Maresca confirmed that Palmer will miss Saturday’s Premier League clash with Burnley, the midweek Champions League meeting with Barcelona, and the following weekend’s showdown against Arsenal. “He is not available for tomorrow for sure, Barcelona for sure, or Arsenal for sure,” Maresca said. He explained that Palmer hit his toe at home two days earlier, causing the fracture.
Maresca stressed that the injury is not serious long-term, but its timing is far from ideal. “It can happen,” he added lightly, joking that he often bumps into things during the night himself. Despite the humor, the absence of one of Chelsea’s most influential players is a serious concern.
Close to Returning Before the New Injury Hit
Cole Palmer has not featured since being substituted during Chelsea’s 2-1 defeat to Manchester United in September. He had been steadily working toward full fitness from his groin problem and was almost ready to rejoin the squad. Maresca admitted the new injury came just as positive progress was being made.
“It was very close,” the manager said. “He was back with us almost with the groin, and it was very good news. And then again, he had this small problem, and hopefully he has nothing important.” The staff remain hopeful that his recovery will not extend too long beyond the next couple of weeks.
Palmer’s creative influence and goal-scoring ability have been vital for Chelsea since his arrival, and the timing of his injury—right before a decisive run of fixtures—cannot be underestimated. With two massive league matches and a Champions League encounter ahead, Chelsea must find solutions in his absence.
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Chelsea Insist They Are Still Better With Palmer
Although Chelsea has lost only twice in all competitions since Palmer last played. Besides that, Maresca dismissed any suggestion that the team performs better without him. Instead, he emphasized how much value Palmer brings to the squad, both technically and tactically.
“The teammates are better players with Cole playing,” he stated firmly. “I feel much better when Cole is inside the pitch, and we all want Cole inside the pitch.” The manager praised the team’s resilience, noting that strong performances without Palmer reflect good structural progress rather than an improvement caused by his absence.
Chelsea will now rely on their depth and adaptability as they navigate this challenging period. Maresca acknowledged the importance of maintaining their style even without one of their key creators.
Squad Updates Ahead of Burnley Clash
Despite Palmer’s setback, Chelsea did receive some positive news on the injury front. Maresca confirmed that Benoit Badiashile, Enzo Fernandez, and Pedro Neto are all available for the trip to Burnley, offering much-needed reinforcement across the pitch.
Fernandez is expected to strengthen the midfield, Badiashile provides stability in defense, and Neto adds pace and creativity in attack—qualities that will be essential as Chelsea prepares for three crucial fixtures.
While Palmer’s absence casts a shadow over the week ahead, the Blues remain determined to push forward as they fight to maintain their strong league position and advance in Europe. Follow the latest Premier League news only at footballcoasters.co.uk.