Cole Palmer: A Star on Hold and a Defining Decision for Chelsea
He decided finals and lifted trophies, but now an uncomfortable question hangs over Stamford Bridge.
The man for the biggest moments
At just 23, Cole Palmer became the face of Chelsea’s success last season. When silverware was on the line, the England international delivered, playing a decisive role in lifting both the Conference League and the Club World Cup.
Against Real Betis, Palmer produced a masterclass, registering two elite assists to turn a final on its head. Months later, he dismantled Luis Enrique’s PSG, the reigning Champions League holders, tormenting Nuno Mendes and company with two carbon-copy goals of outstanding quality and a perfectly weighted assist for João Pedro.
Two finals. Two standout performances. Two trophies.
High expectations, harsh reality
With that résumé, expectations at Stamford Bridge were sky-high heading into the 2025–26 season. Few doubted Palmer would reach — or surpass — those levels again.
Instead, the campaign has taken an unexpected turn. Persistent groin issues have hampered the winger, forcing him to play through pain and inevitably affecting both his rhythm and impact on the pitch.
Rest, return, and recurring problems
Aware of the situation, former head coach Enzo Maresca opted to shut Palmer down for nearly a month, hoping rest would finally ease the discomfort.
It didn’t. Upon his return, the problem lingered. The numbers reflect the struggle: just 12 appearances this season and four goals, a stark contrast to the player who dominated finals only months earlier.
Rosenior’s caution sends a message
New head coach Liam Rosenior made his stance clear from the outset, leaving Palmer out of his first match in charge — an FA Cup tie against Charlton Athletic — with an eye on the EFL Cup semifinal against Arsenal.
That plan has now been scrapped. Palmer will miss the crucial clash as the groin issue refuses to settle. Speaking ahead of the game, Rosenior explained his reasoning:
“We’re at a stage of the season where we have eight games in three weeks. It would be madness for me to risk any player at this point.”
A medical crossroads
With the fixture list tightening, the focus now shifts to Palmer and Chelsea’s medical staff. The options are clear. Continue with a conservative treatment, which so far has failed to solve the problem, or move toward surgery.
An operation would mean a lengthy spell on the sidelines, but also the hope of finally putting the groin issues behind him. Time is running out, and in London, the dilemma surrounding their most gifted player grows more pressing by the day.
Caught between immediate demands and long-term thinking, Chelsea face a defining call. Cole Palmer’s talent is unquestionable — the challenge now is ensuring it can shine again without pain holding it back.
