Chelsea will face significant challenges in their upcoming matches against Barcelona and Arsenal without Cole Palmer. The player, who has been sidelined for much of the season, recently fractured his toe.
This setback follows a groin injury he sustained in August, which was aggravated upon his return in September.
Enzo Maresca, Chelsea's manager, had anticipated Palmer's return after the November international break. However, before their Premier League match against Burnley, Maresca disclosed that Palmer had encountered another issue. "He is probably not available for Saturday for sure, Barcelona for sure or Arsenal for sure," said Maresca. "Unfortunately, he had an accident at home where he hit his toe. "
Chelsea's schedule includes a Champions League match against Barcelona next Tuesday and a Premier League game against Arsenal on November 30 at Stamford Bridge. These fixtures are crucial as they aim to maintain their competitive edge in both leagues.
When asked about how Palmer sustained his latest injury, Maresca explained: "I wake up many times in the night to go to the toilet, I hit my head and leg and everything. It can happen. " He noted that Palmer was close to returning from his groin injury but now faces this new challenge.
The timeline for Palmer's recovery remains uncertain. "We don't know [about a timescale]. It's fractured," Maresca added. The only certainty is that Palmer will be unavailable this week and next week.
Burnley (A) is up next.
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Palmer's absence is a blow to Chelsea as they navigate these important fixtures. His contributions on the field have been missed due to his ongoing injury struggles this season.
