Chelsea injury latest: Cole Palmer, Liam Delap and more | OneFootball

Chelsea FC injury update: Cole Palmer progress, Delap concerns and midfield setbacks

Chelsea’s recent upturn in results has brought a sense of stability back to Stamford Bridge, but the availability of key personnel remains under close scrutiny. Enzo Maresca is continuing to manage a congested squad list shaped as much by rehabilitation schedules as by tactical preference, with several senior and emerging figures working towards full fitness.

Cole Palmer’s return to the scoresheet against Everton was a timely boost, while there are cautiously optimistic signals around Liam Delap’s shoulder injury. Elsewhere, uncertainty persists for Romeo Lavia and Levi Colwill, and Dario Essugo’s stop-start integration has again been interrupted. What follows is a clear snapshot of where Chelsea’s injury picture stands as the festive period approaches.

Cole Palmer fitness management ongoing

Cole Palmer remains central to Chelsea’s attacking rhythm, even as his minutes continue to be carefully controlled. The 22-year-old started and scored against Everton, marking his first goal since being sidelined earlier in the autumn by a lingering issue that has required constant monitoring.

Despite the positive optics, Palmer’s early withdrawal before the hour mark was pre-planned. Chelsea’s medical staff are determined to avoid any relapse, with his workload being managed on a game-by-game basis rather than through rigid timelines.

Speaking after the match, Palmer acknowledged that he is still operating below full capacity. He described the recovery process as incremental, stressing the importance of restraint as he builds back towards peak condition.

“I wouldn’t say I’m at my best yet,” Palmer explained. “I’m still dealing with an injury. Hopefully it gets better and better but there’s still a bit to go. It’s just a matter of not doing too much too soon.”

Internally, there is confidence that Palmer can continue to contribute while progressing towards full fitness, provided his exposure is handled with care.

Potential return to full availability: Newcastle (away), December 20, 2025

Liam Delap and Dario Essugo recovery timelines clarified

Liam Delap faces another spell on the sidelines after sustaining a shoulder injury during the stalemate with Bournemouth earlier this month. The striker was forced off inside the opening half-hour following an awkward collision, initially raising fears of a lengthy absence.

Subsequent assessments have eased some of those concerns. Chelsea do not believe surgery will be required, and while Delap’s recovery is not being rushed, there is optimism he will return before the end of January.

Maresca has been careful not to overcommit to a firm date, emphasising that the recovery window remains fluid. The expectation, however, is that Delap will be back in training within weeks rather than months.

Alongside him, Dario Essugo’s situation has also been clarified. The midfielder’s recent absence is not linked to his earlier thigh problem, with Maresca confirming it is a separate and relatively minor issue. While a pre-Christmas return looks unlikely, the setback is not considered serious.

Potential return dates:Delap – Early January 2026Essugo – January 2026

Romeo Lavia injury uncertainty persists

Romeo Lavia’s Chelsea career continues to be disrupted by physical setbacks. Since arriving from Southampton in 2023, the midfielder has struggled to establish continuity, and his latest muscle injury has again halted his momentum.

The issue was sustained during the Champions League fixture away at Qarabag on November 5, and at present there is no definitive return window. Maresca has been candid about the lack of clarity, admitting that the club is still assessing both the severity and likely duration of the problem.

For Chelsea, the situation is frustrating. Lavia is viewed internally as a long-term cornerstone in midfield, but his ongoing unavailability has complicated squad planning during a demanding schedule.

Potential return date: Unknown

Levi Colwill long-term absence confirmed

Levi Colwill is set for a prolonged spell out after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury shortly after Chelsea returned for pre-season training. The defender underwent surgery in August, and his rehabilitation will extend deep into 2026.

While the club remain confident in Colwill’s long-term recovery, there is little expectation of meaningful involvement this season. The focus is firmly on a controlled rehabilitation process rather than any accelerated return.

Potential return date: Spring or summer 2026

Chelsea’s improving form has eased some external pressure, but Maresca’s ability to sustain momentum will depend heavily on how quickly his squad regains depth. For now, Palmer’s careful reintegration offers encouragement, even as other key figures remain works in progress.