Cole Palmer looking frustrated during a Chelsea match
Chelsea have been dealt a major setback after midfield star Cole Palmer suffered yet another injury blow—this time through a freak accident at home that resulted in a fractured toe.
The timing couldn’t be worse. After missing weeks due to a groin injury, Palmer was moments away from returning to full action. Instead, he has now been ruled out of Chelsea’s next three games, significantly disrupting Enzo Maresca’s plans for a crucial run of fixtures.
Palmer has made just four appearances this season, with fitness issues keeping him sidelined since Chelsea’s dramatic 2-1 loss to Manchester United on September 20. His groin problem kept him away from both club and country duties, and as he neared a comeback, misfortune struck again.
According to Maresca, the 23-year-old picked up the toe injury during what he described as an unavoidable “accident at home.” While the injury isn’t considered long-term, it is serious enough to keep him out for at least two more weeks.
The Chelsea boss explained:
“He is not available for tomorrow, for sure. Barcelona for sure. Arsenal for sure. Unfortunately, he had an accident at home two days ago. He hit his toe. It’s nothing important, but he’s not back in the next week.”
The setback rules Palmer out of three key fixtures:
Premier League clash against Burnley
Champions League showdown versus Barcelona
London derby against Arsenal on November 30
For a Chelsea side fighting to build rhythm under Maresca, losing one of their most creative talents is a massive blow.
The manager tried to lighten the moment with humour, adding:
“I wake up many times in the night to go to the toilet, I hit my head and leg and everything. It can happen.”
Despite his absence, Palmer has been making the most of his downtime. Reports say he has been working hard in the gym, “bulking up” and improving his physique. The young star has been a constant presence around the club—watching training sessions and supporting teammates from the stands.
His determination extends to the international scene as well. Missing England’s successful World Cup qualifiers has fueled his hunger to return stronger and reclaim his place in Thomas Tuchel’s squad.
Maresca is confident:
“For me personally, Cole is one of our best players. No doubt that he can play in any international team.”
Former Chelsea star Joe Cole is among those eagerly awaiting Palmer’s comeback.
Cole praised the players who stepped up in his absence, but emphasized Palmer’s irreplaceable impact:
“He can elevate them, and his return will give the lads a boost. If you played against Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo and Cole Palmer in the 10 role, it’s as good as anything in world football.”
With Chelsea fighting for momentum and consistency, Palmer’s return could indeed be the spark they need.
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