Chelsea Manager Provides Update on Cole Palmer’s Injury Recovery

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has indicated that Cole Palmer may return to action sooner than initially anticipated, although he is still expected to miss the Premier League match against Arsenal this Sunday.

Palmer was close to regaining full fitness after sustaining a groin injury in September. Unfortunately, he suffered a fractured toe in a peculiar home accident last week, which has sidelined him from both the Champions League clash against Barcelona and the forthcoming match against Arsenal. Nevertheless, Maresca remains optimistic about Palmer’s recovery, noting that the club has developed a specially-adapted boot for his left foot to facilitate healing.

“We don’t have a specific timeline yet, but for sure it will be soon,” Maresca stated during a news conference on Monday. “He’s already back on the pitch, he’s touching the ball, and the feedback is positive. We are focused on tomorrow’s Champions League game and will shift our attention to Arsenal afterward.”

When asked if Palmer might be available for the match against the Gunners, Maresca replied, “I don’t think so at the moment.”

In Palmer’s absence, Brazilian teenager Estêvão is eager to make an impact in the upcoming match against Barcelona. The young player has drawn comparisons to Spanish winger Lamine Yamal due to his promising start at Chelsea; however, Maresca cautioned against making direct comparisons.

“He is undoubtedly going to be an important player for this club in the future,” Maresca noted. “The key for Estêvão is to fully enjoy the game, to be happy, and not to compare himself to others. He should focus on self-improvement day by day through hard work. I am confident he will become a top player for our club.

“Estêvão is already competing at a high level, having made the starting eleven for Brazil. He is young and has much to learn, but we are very pleased with his progress.

“What I mentioned about Estêvão is similar to what I said regarding Pedri; it’s a joy for football enthusiasts to witness players like Estêvão, Lamine Yamal, and Pedri in action. We are thrilled to have Estêvão with us, and I have no doubts he will excel.”