Chelsea faces another setback at a crucial point in the season. Their star player, Cole Palmer, will be out for longer than initially expected due to an aggravated groin injury. The English playmaker, one of the most decisive players in the Premier League last season, won’t return to action until December, leaving a major void in the Blues’ attack.

Six more weeks without their star

Italian manager Enzo Maresca confirmed in a press conference that the player’s recovery isn’t going as planned. “I was wrong, but doctors aren’t magicians. Unfortunately, he’ll be out for six more weeks, though the good news is he won’t need surgery. We’ve tried to protect him as much as possible,” explained the coach.

Palmer suffered the injury on September 20 during the match against Manchester United, and although the initial prognosis suggested a late October return, the final diagnosis has extended his absence. Since then, the Englishman has managed to play just four official matches this season — a serious blow for a team that relies heavily on his creativity and goal-scoring ability.

The prolonged absence means he’ll miss several key fixtures, including derbies against Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal, as well as the Champions League clash with FC Barcelona on November 25 at Stamford Bridge. He’ll also be unavailable for matches against Nottingham Forest, Ajax, Wolverhampton, Qarabag, and Burnley.

A major challenge for Maresca and his squad

The Chelsea boss knows replacing the England international won’t be easy. “He’s a very important player for us and one of the best in the Premier League. Replacing him isn’t simple, but we have a talented squad and must trust everyone,” said Maresca.

Last season, Cole Palmer played 52 matches, scoring 18 goals and providing 14 assists, establishing himself as the team’s creative engine and a key figure in Chelsea’s Conference League and Club World Cup triumphs. His absence comes at a difficult time, with the London side sitting five points off the top of the Premier League and with only three points in their Champions League group.

To make matters worse, Maresca also confirmed that Benoît Badiashile will be out until December with a muscle problem. With a packed schedule and a growing injury list, Chelsea will have to reinvent itself to keep its ambitions alive across all competitions while waiting for the long-awaited return of their jewel, Cole Palmer.