Chelsea manager, Enzo Maresca, has recently updated fans about the condition of Cole Palmer following a heavy challenge from Lisandro Martinez during Sunday's 1-1 draw with Manchester United. Despite the severity of the tackle, Martinez was only given a yellow card as his studs did not make clean contact with Palmer’s upper leg.
During the match at Old Trafford, a stunning volley by Moises Caicedo balanced out Bruno Fernandes's penalty. By that time, Chelsea had used only three of their five permitted substitutions. However, despite being on the receiving end of Martinez’s high boot challenge, Palmer managed to complete the full 90 minutes. Post-match inquiries about Palmer’s condition revealed that he required ice for his wound after Martinez's tackle. However, Enzo Maresca remains optimistic that it is nothing serious.
Chelsea manager, Enzo Maresca, said:
"Hopefully he is okay. He has ice on it now, I don't think he has the intention of going for the ball. For me, it is clear,"
Despite not contributing directly to scoring or assisting at Old Trafford, Palmer played an influential role in the final third. He made three key passes and won nine out of ten ground duels during Sunday’s game.
Impact on upcoming games
Given that Palmer was able to complete Sunday’s match post-tackle suggests that his injury is not severe and he should be fit enough to return next weekend.
The 22-year-old player will have an extended break this week as he was not included in Chelsea's Europa Conference League squad and will therefore miss Thursday's clash against Armenian side Noah. In light of this situation, Coach Maresca is expected to give opportunities to players like Joao Felix, Christopher Nkunku and Mykhaylo Mudryk in upcoming matches - continuing his trend of making significant changes in third-tier competitions.
Palmer is anticipated to recover swiftly for next Sunday's crucial Arsenal fixture. This match holds significant importance as Chelsea has now overtaken Arsenal in the Premier League table based on goal difference. While Palmer's injury from Martinez's tackle was a cause for concern, it appears that the player will be back in action soon. Fans and sports betting enthusiasts can look forward to seeing him on the field again next weekend.
