A Domestic Accident Rules Him Out

Midfielder Cole Palmer, 23, will not be available against Barcelona in the fifth matchday of the Champions League, set for Stamford Bridge on November 25 (9:00 PM CET). Enzo Maresca, Chelsea’s Italian head coach, revealed today in his pre-Burnley press conference (13:30 h.) that one of the Premier League’s standout performers will miss the league match and remain sidelined throughout the following week due to a domestic accident.

"He will probably not be available tomorrow, nor for the match against Barcelona or the one against Arsenal. Unfortunately, he had an accident at home where he hit his toe, but it’s nothing serious, although he won’t be back next week," the manager explained.

An Irregular Season Marked by Setbacks

So far this season, Palmer has only been able to play four matches—three in the league and one in the Champions League. Even so, the Chelsea player has scored two goals in his limited minutes on the pitch. He had appeared to be fully recovered from his previous groin issues.

From City Prospect to Chelsea Leader

The Englishman left Manchester City two years ago in search of the playing time Pep Guardiola could not provide. With heavy competition from stars like Kevin De Bruyne, Gündogan, Phil Foden, and Bernardo Silva, Palmer sought a new chapter. His move to Chelsea has proven ideal, becoming one of the pillars of the London club’s project.

Impact on the Team and Expected Return Date

With Palmer on the pitch, Chelsea gain creativity and clarity in the final third. The 'Blue' star, who already totals 45 goals and 29 assists in 101 games, could return on Saturday, October 18, in the match against Nottingham Forest.