Cole Palmer Chelsea injury news has Blues fans on edge after the 23-year-old playmaker posted a short but hopeful Instagram update. Having missed the last two matches with a groin issue, Palmer’s status for next Saturday’s Premier League clash at Brentford remains uncertain.
The England international first felt discomfort before Chelsea’s emphatic 5-0 win at West Ham. He was named in the starting XI but limped out of the warm-up, replaced by Estevão Willian at the last moment. Since then, Palmer has been training individually indoors at Cobham, working back towards full fitness.
“Back Soon” Sparks Optimism
On Thursday evening, Palmer broke his silence with a two-word message — “Back soon” — alongside a photo from Stamford Bridge. The post was seized upon by Chelsea supporters as a positive sign, but Maresca is expected to be cautious.
“This is where we are this season. I don’t think it’s random that our three players with the most minutes last season — Levi, Cole and Moi — are all injured. It’s probably to do with the amount of minutes last season.” — Enzo Maresca
Maresca noted last week that Palmer, Moises Caicedo and Levi Colwill — Chelsea’s top three in minutes played last season — have all suffered early setbacks in 2025/26.
Chelsea’s Injury Pile-Up
- Levi Colwill: Out for the season after ACL surgery in pre-season.
- Moises Caicedo: Missed Ecuador’s qualifier with Paraguay due to a muscular knock.
- Liam Delap: Several weeks out with a hamstring injury suffered against Fulham.
Palmer’s problem is less serious than Colwill’s, but with over 4,200 minutes played last season, the risk of overloading is real.
Squad Options for Maresca
Chelsea moved to cover Palmer’s absence on deadline day by signing Facundo Buonanotte on loan from Brighton for £2m. However, the Argentine has not had much time to integrate and was left out of the Champions League squad.
Other options include:
- Joao Pedro: Filling the No.10 role or pushed forward as a central striker.
- Enzo Fernández: Advanced into attack with Andrey Santos or Dário Essugo supporting.
- Estevão Willian: Given a bigger role on the flank after impressing at West Ham.
Palmer’s 2024/25 Season Numbers
| Stat (2024/25) | Cole Palmer |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 52 |
| Goals | 23 |
| Assists | 14 |
| Minutes Played | 4,200+ |
source: club data / sofascore – 5 September 2025
Palmer’s workload highlights why Chelsea are taking no risks — he was one of the most heavily used players in Europe last season, a factor Maresca believes is linked to his current groin issue.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William says Palmer’s absence is a reality check for Maresca’s Chelsea:
“Palmer was Chelsea’s talisman last season, carrying their attack in key moments. Without him, they lose creativity and goals, so it’s no surprise Maresca is sweating on his fitness. The Brentford game comes too soon if there’s any risk — but his return will define Chelsea’s autumn.”
He adds:
“This is exactly why Chelsea signed Buonanotte and pushed hard for attacking depth. Palmer cannot carry the entire creative load again without risking long-term damage.”
Key Insights
- Cole Palmer missed West Ham and Fulham matches with a groin injury.
- Posted a two-word update: “Back soon”.
- Maresca admits overuse last season is catching up with players.
- Brentford game may come too early unless medical staff give clearance.
- Chelsea signed Facundo Buonanotte on loan to provide cover.
What’s Next for Chelsea and Palmer?
Palmer will be assessed throughout the international break, with a final decision on his involvement against Brentford expected late next week. Maresca is determined not to rush his No.10 back, with Chelsea eyeing a busy run of league and Champions League fixtures in October.
For fans, Palmer’s “Back soon” message offers hope, but patience may be the watchword if Chelsea want him available for the long haul.
Should Enzo Maresca risk Cole Palmer at Brentford — or save him for bigger tests later in October?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 5 Sep 2025 19:00
We need him! Delap is injured and I dont like Joao Pedro at 10, even tough he does it well, but would rather see him as our 9 and Palmer back at 10.
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