Chelsea injury latest: Cole Palmer, Romeo Lavia and more | OneFootball

Chelsea Injury Update as Arsenal Clash Looms

Chelsea stride into one of the defining weeks of their season with momentum pulsing through Stamford Bridge and optimism rising among supporters. The emphatic 3-0 win over Barcelona in the Champions League was a night that showcased quality, character and youthful brilliance. It also offered its own concerns, with fresh questions emerging around fitness just as Arsenal prepare to arrive in West London for a top-of-the-table meeting.

Below is an in-depth Chelsea injury update ahead of Sunday, with clarity, context and insight into return dates for several key players. 

Palmer Close to Returning

Cole Palmer remains at the heart of discussion. His absence over the past two months has been felt deeply, not simply for his creativity but for the authority he brings in decisive moments. His recovery from a groin problem suffered an unexpected twist when he fractured a toe in what was described as a freak accident at home, stubbing the little toe on his left foot on a door.

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He had been close to returning before that setback, and Enzo Maresca acknowledged last week that Palmer was unlikely to face Arsenal. Yet the tone has shifted. Palmer has resumed individual training and his left boot has been specially adapted with additional cushioning to aid his recovery.

Maresca said: “We don’t know when, but for sure [he will be back] soon. He’s already on the pitch and touching the ball. The feeling is good.” He added that Palmer reported feeling better in sessions, a small but important step toward involvement.

Potential return date: November 30, 2025 vs Arsenal (h)

Estevao Fitness Concern Eases

Estevao’s stunning solo goal against Barcelona reaffirmed his rising status, but Chelsea were left briefly uneasy when the young Brazilian required treatment before being substituted in the 83rd minute. He did not appear to limp afterwards and even completed an interview with Amazon Prime, offering reassurance that any injury scare may be minor.

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Maresca made no reference to a problem after the match, increasing confidence that he will be available for Sunday.

Potential return date: November 30, 2025 vs Arsenal (h)

Lavia Faces Another Spell Out

Romeo Lavia continues to endure a luckless run. Another injury, this time a quad problem suffered only four minutes into the 2-2 draw with Qarabag, has kept him sidelined again. His Chelsea career has been punctuated by hamstring issues, thigh trouble and unspecified fitness concerns that have prevented him from completing a full 90 minutes.

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Maresca said: “We feel a shame for him. He’s not able to be fit for a long, long period. We will see now.”

Potential return date: December

Long Term Absences

Dario Essugo underwent surgery after a thigh injury with Portugal Under-21s in September. He is targeting a return early next year.

Potential return date: January

Levi Colwill suffered a serious knee injury in the first training session after the Club World Cup and is expected to miss most of the season.

Potential return date: Summer 2026