It’s no secret that Chelsea have grown reliant on the individual brilliance of Cole Palmer since his Stamford Bridge arrival at the beginning of the 2023–24 season.
An astonishing debut campaign with the Blues was followed by another stellar season of goals and assists, with the England international undoubtedly Chelsea’s talisman. While Enzo Maresca has created a more balanced side since his appointment, Palmer, who ranked a very creditable eighth in the 2025 Ballon d’Or, remains the standout performer.
Unfortunately for the attacking midfielder and his Italian coach, a persistent groin injury has already limited his minutes at the start of the current term and threatens to sideline him in the upcoming days, weeks and perhaps even months.
Chelsea will be sweating over their No.10’s fitness, but just how concerned do they need to be by his potential absence?
