From Palmer's Absence to Chelsea's Depth: Maresca Reveals All Ahead of Burnley Clash
21 November 2025
Injury Update Ahead of Key Matches
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca held a Friday press conference with a shocking update for fans: the young star Cole Palmer will be out for at least two weeks as Chelsea faces a run of crucial domestic and European fixtures.
Maresca explained that Palmer will miss the Burnley game in the Premier League's twelfth round and will also be unavailable for Barcelona and Arsenal matches, with the injury attributed to a simple home accident.
The Italian coach confirmed Palmer is not available for tomorrow's match and will not be ready for Barcelona or Arsenal. Palmer suffered a home accident two days ago and hit his toe; the injury is not serious but he will be out this week.
Asked about the nature of the injury and whether it is limited to the toe, Maresca replied that what has been said should clarify the matter.
Regarding the duration, Maresca stated that the exact length is unknown, but Palmer will definitely miss this week and probably the next.
On the player's frustration at frequent absences, Maresca added with a light touch that such things can happen; sometimes he wakes at night and bumps into things.
About Palmer wearing protective gear, Maresca noted that the last time he saw him was yesterday morning and that Palmer was not wearing socks or sandals, around the locker room area.
On his mobility, the coach said Palmer is not heavily limping and was moving well, but the little toe rubs painfully against the boot.
Squad Depth, Returns, and Training Updates
Maresca then addressed Axel Disassi's training role, explaining that Axel is considered a Chelsea player and helps the second team while keeping up with the youngsters. During the international break, only five or six players were available, so players from the second team were involved; Axel trained with them but only joined one session with the first team.
When asked whether Disassi is out of first-team plans, the coach responded that he currently trains with the second team and will stay there. Regarding Raheem Sterling, Maresca said Sterling is also a Chelsea player in the same situation.
On rumors about goalkeeper Phil Jorgensen potentially leaving, Maresca explained that he spoke with Jorgensen earlier in the season and has not discussed this topic lately. It's natural for players not featuring regularly to seek more minutes, but there have been no recent talks.
Praise for Malo Gusto and Team's Improvement
Maresca highlighted that Malo Gusto is a key player who can operate in multiple positions and helps make the team more dynamic; the coach has been happy with him since joining Chelsea.
Gusto's presence has helped speed up the team's play; the team aims to win the ball back quickly, with seven seconds sometimes quoted as the norm, and the coach believes the squad is evolving and can be better.
Regarding Palmer's previous thigh issue, Maresca said Palmer was very close to returning before a toe problem arose; he added that Cole is one of the best players and could play for any national team, but the final decision rests with the manager.
Beyond injuries, Maresca provided updates after the international break: Moises Caicedo returned last night but had not yet played; Benoît Badiashile also returned and could be available for tomorrow's match; Enzo Fernandez and Pedro Neto used the break to recharge and are available for tomorrow.
On performing well without Palmer, Maresca smiled that the team can still perform well without him, but they certainly prefer him in the lineup; the players step up and the squad has been doing great. And for a little levity: if Palmer’s toe keeps him out, Chelsea fans can always claim extra midfield toe-y power is on the way. Also, rumor has it the boot sponsor is considering a toe-friendly line to secure a few extra kicks this season.
