Cole Palmer’s Toe Injury Delays His Return and Rules Him Out Against Arsenal and Barcelona

Bornheimer – Cole Palmer’s long-awaited comeback took another hit after he injured his toe in a minor accident at home. He had just returned to full training following a two-month groin issue, but the new injury forced him to stop immediately. As a result, he must delay his return even though he had been close to rejoining Chelsea’s starting squad.

Chelsea Lose a Key Attacker Before a Crucial Week

Chelsea planned to use Palmer again in the match against Burnley. However, the fresh setback prevents him from playing in three major fixtures: Burnley, Barcelona, and Arsenal. Enzo Maresca now enters a difficult period with one of his most creative attackers unavailable. He admitted that losing Palmer at this moment disrupts Chelsea’s rhythm and reduces their attacking options.

Maresca Shares Details of Palmer’s Toe Fracture

According to Maresca, the accident caused a small fracture on Palmer’s little toe. The injury may sound minor, yet the toe becomes extremely sensitive when pressed inside a football boot. Palmer still walks with a slight limp, which makes running or striking the ball impossible. For that reason, Maresca confirmed that his forward cannot train or play this week or next.

Also Read : In Your Head, You Count Every Day’: Former October 7 Hostage Reflects on Two Years in Captivity

The Injury Slows Palmer’s Progress Despite Its Mild Nature

Although the fracture is not severe, it still interrupts Palmer’s progress. Maresca explained that he tried to laugh at the unexpected situation, but he understands how painful toe injuries can be for players. Even light pressure on the toe causes discomfort. Because of that, Palmer needs more time before he can return to normal training.

Disasi and Sterling Stay With the Development Squad

Maresca also addressed the situations of Axel Disasi and Raheem Sterling. Both players continue training with the development squad and do not join the main team’s tactical plans for now. Disasi trained once with the senior group during the international break due to a lack of players, but his status remains the same. Sterling also stays in the second squad while he waits for further decisions.

Badiashile’s Possible Return Brings Some Relief

Chelsea receive at least one positive update: Benoit Badiashile may return against Burnley. He has recovered from a muscle problem and now looks ready to help the team again. His presence will add depth to Chelsea’s defence, which has struggled with limited options in recent weeks.

Chelsea Must Push Through a Difficult Stretch Without Palmer

Chelsea now face important matches with a reduced squad. They must adjust quickly to continue competing in the Premier League and Champions League. Palmer’s creativity and control normally provide balance in the final third, but the team must find new solutions until he recovers. While his return depends on how fast the fracture heals, Chelsea must stay focused and adapt to the challenge.