Cole Palmer set to miss three weeks through injury | OneFootball

Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer (23) will spend up to three weeks on the sidelines as he continues to manage a persistent groin problem, BBC Sport reports.

The 23-year-old was withdrawn during the first half of Chelsea’s 2-1 defeat at Manchester United last weekend after the injury resurfaced. It is an issue that first arose during the club’s truncated two-week pre-season, which followed their FIFA Club World Cup triumph in July.

Manager Enzo Maresca confirmed that the decision was precautionary, with the club prioritising Palmer’s long-term fitness. “We decided to protect Cole, not letting his injury get worse,” Maresca explained. “The plan is to rest him for two to three weeks until the international break, and then hopefully he will return fully fit. Surgery is not required, it is simply about managing the pain.”

Palmer, who made 52 appearances in all competitions last season, has started just three of Chelsea’s seven fixtures this term. His absence will be felt as the Blues prepare for a demanding run, including Premier League clashes against Brighton and Liverpool, as well as a Champions League meeting with Jose Mourinho’s Benfica.

Maresca also faces further selection challenges, with Tosin Adarabioyo sidelined until after the international break and Wesley Fofana unavailable for the Brighton fixture due to concussion.

GFN | Finn Entwistle