Injury Concerns and Tactical Changes as Chelsea Faces Pafos

Cole Palmer’s season has faced significant disruption due to injury, limiting the England international to just 13 appearances across all competitions for Chelsea this season. Ahead of the crucial match against Pafos, manager Liam Rosenior has made six changes to his starting lineup, including the introduction of Liam Delap, Alejandro Garnacho, Pedro Neto, and Enzo Fernandez in the attacking roles. This match marks Rosenior’s debut as a manager in the Champions League, pitting him against Cypriot opposition.

Before kick-off, Rosenior addressed Palmer’s absence, stating to TNT Sports: “Cole has just missed out on this one. We hope he will be fit for Sunday’s game against Palace. He picked up a minor strain, more of a fatigue-related issue, in the last match. At this stage of the season, we want to ensure that everyone is in optimal condition.”

The Chelsea manager also elaborated on his selection choices, having overhauled his entire backline by starting Jorrel Hato, Benoit Badiashile, Wesley Fofana, and Malo Gusto against Pafos. He remarked, “I consider myself fortunate to have such a deep squad, especially with the congested fixture schedule. All the players I selected have impressed me. Filip [Jorgensen] performed exceptionally against Charlton, and Jorrel [Hato] scored in that match as well. He is an outstanding young talent. Benoit and Wesley are both proven performers, and Malo has just returned from injury. I am confident that the squad will rise to the occasion tonight.”

Rosenior further mentioned that illness within the camp had impacted his selections. “I trust my players and their abilities. Changing the back four was necessary given the circumstances we faced against Brentford, with Tosin [Adarabioyo] and Trevoh [Chalobah] having to adapt to various game situations. I am fortunate to have solid defenders who can tackle different challenges.”

In a nostalgic moment during Wednesday’s match, former Chelsea star David Luiz returned to Stamford Bridge, though he started on the bench for Pafos. Speaking before the match, he expressed his sentiments about facing his old club: “It’s a gift from God to be back here again. I had the chance to return to Europe, and now we are here playing against Chelsea in the Champions League. Seeing familiar faces enhances the unique connection I have with this place.”

Luiz also reflected on his time at Chelsea, noting that winning the Champions League remains his most cherished memory. “The best moment of my career was undoubtedly that night in Munich. It was a special evening for everyone involved, and I will never forget it. My first goal here against Manchester United was phenomenal and truly helped me grasp what Chelsea means.”

Looking ahead, Chelsea will return to Premier League action against Crystal Palace on Sunday at Selhurst Park. There is hope that Palmer will be fit for this matchup, following which the Blues will travel to Napoli for their final Champions League group phase match.