Cole Palmer returns to training but set to miss fixtures against Arsenal and Barcelona | OneFootball

Chelsea’s preparations for a pivotal week in their season have been dealt a significant setback, with head coach Enzo Maresca confirming that Cole Palmer (23) is expected to miss the upcoming fixtures against Barcelona and Arsenal.

Palmer, who only recently returned to light training, fractured a toe in an accident at home last week, compounding the groin injury that has sidelined him since September. The untimely setback means the England international, Chelsea’s top scorer last season, will sit out two of the most demanding tests of the campaign.

The 23-year-old has not featured since the 2-1 defeat at Manchester United more than two months ago, missing 12 club matches and two international windows. Despite his absence, both Chelsea and England have managed to navigate the period effectively, yet his creativity and goal threat remain sorely missed.

Chelsea host Barcelona on Tuesday before turning attention to Sunday’s Premier League meeting with leaders Arsenal. Maresca remains optimistic about Palmer’s progress but offered no firm timeline.

“We don’t know when he will be back, but for sure it will be soon,” the Italian said speaking to media. “He’s already on the pitch, already touching the ball, and the feeling is good.” However, when pressed on Palmer’s availability for Arsenal, Maresca was cautious: “I don’t think so at the moment.”

GFN | Finn Entwistle