Chelsea forward Cole Palmer is expected to be sidelined for approximately six more weeks due to a groin injury,manager Enzo Maresca confirmed. The injury occurred during the Blues’ recent defeat against Manchester United, where Palmer was forced off after just 21 minutes of play.
This setback represents a notable blow to chelsea’s campaign, as Palmer has emerged as a key player since joining the club. maresca described him as “probably one of the best in the Premier League,” acknowledging the difficulty in replacing his contributions. The injury further complicates matters for Chelsea, who are already navigating a congested treatment room.
Beyond Palmer, several Chelsea players are facing injury concerns ahead of their upcoming Premier League match against Nottingham Forest. Midfielder Moisés Caicedo,winger Pedro Neto,and midfielder Enzo Fernández are all considered injury doubts. However, defenders Tosin Adarabioyo and Wesley Fofana, along with midfielder Andrey Santos, are anticipated to return to the squad.
Maresca indicated the team will need to explore choice tactical solutions in Palmer’s absence, citing malo Gusto and Facundo Buonanotte as players who have previously filled the role. He emphasized that “we don’t have another player like Cole. He is unique.”
brazilian teenager Estêvão, who recently scored a stoppage-time winner against Liverpool, could also see increased playing time as Chelsea seeks to overcome this challenging period and improve upon their slow start to the season. Palmer’s injury adds to a season already marked by limited appearances, having made only two starts in all competitions prior to the groin issue.
