Cole Palmer is back in contention for Chelsea ahead of Sunday’s Premier League showdown with London rivals Arsenal at Stamford Bridge. The 23-year-old forward missed the wins over Burnley and Barcelona after fracturing his toe last week by stubbing it on a door.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca confirmed Palmer’s return, saying, “He is available to start. Everyone is happy, the team-mates are happy, we are all happy and the most important thing is Cole is happy because a footballer wants to play games and make the sessions every day. He is our best player, we are happy he is back.”
Palmer’s Impact and Form
Palmer, who has struggled with injuries this season, has featured only five times across all competitions. His absence had been a significant concern, given Chelsea’s strong start in the league, sitting just behind Arsenal. The England international joined Chelsea from Manchester City for £40m in September 2023 and has been a consistent scorer, netting 22 goals in his debut season and 15 last term.
“He has done fantastic in the past and no doubt he is going to do very good for this club in the future,” Maresca added, highlighting the importance of Palmer’s return ahead of a crucial top-of-the-table clash.
Selection Headaches for Maresca
Chelsea have thrived in Palmer’s absence, winning 10 of 13 games across competitions. Summer signing Estevao Willian has impressed with five goals, while Pedro Neto, Jamie Gittens, Alejandro Garnacho, and Enzo Fernandez have all contributed significantly.
Maresca noted,
“[It] depends on the game plan. For sure they are exciting. Fans excited. We also are excited. We need always balance between two.”
This leaves the manager with a selection dilemma, as the most exciting attacking quartet could feature Joao Pedro, Neto, Palmer, and Estevao, but he may opt for caution and rotate his options to maintain balance against Arsenal.
Palmer’s return not only strengthens Chelsea’s attacking options but also adds fresh intrigue to Sunday’s Premier League encounter, with both clubs eyeing a decisive victory at Stamford Bridge.
Quoted Insight:
“He is our best player, we are happy he is back. We need to give him time to be 100% fit,” Maresca emphasized.
“[Selecting Palmer] depends on the game plan. Fans are excited, we are excited, but balance is key,” he added, reflecting the strategic challenge facing Chelsea ahead of the Arsenal clash.
Also Read: Gueye’s Red Card Appeal Dismissed Without Explanation
