Chelsea fans have been waiting to see Cole Palmer back in action ever since he walked off the pitch injured at Old Trafford back in September.
The England international has started just three games for the Blues this season, and has been struggling with a groin injury throughout the campaign.
Enzo Maresca revealed Palmer had suffered a setback after fracturing his toe during his recovery, however there was renewed hope when he was spotted in training on Monday.
Will Chelsea beat Barcelona in the Champions League?
Palmer was desperate to face Barcelona. Chelsea’s star man is very keen on taking part in the marquee games that have been presented to the club this season.
Chelsea FC Training Session And Press Conference - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD5
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Cole Palmer unlikely to feature against Barcelona despite training with Chelsea
However, David Ornstein has claimed that it is more likely that he will be in action against Arsenal at the weekend, casting doubt over his availability for the huge Champions League clash.
He said to Sky Sports’ Back Pages podcast: “They do want to get him back in contention. I’m not sure if he’ll be available to feature against Barcelona tomorrow, but certainly Arsenal on the horizon at the weekend. And even if he doesn’t make that, to just get back in soon.”
Maresca is going to have to find internal solutions to replace the key attacker, however has been showing in recent league games that he is managing to do this.
The Blues currently sit second in the Premier League, but will be looking to close in on the automatic qualifying spots in the Champions League groups.
Chelsea FC v Paris Saint-Germain: Final - FIFA Club World Cup 2025
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Chelsea’s plan for Barcelona without Palmer
Joao Pedro is likely to start in the number 10 role for the Blues, with him beginning to find his form in front of goal again in recent games.
This would see Liam Delap retain his place up front, however the biggest decision comes for the manager when deciding who starts out wide.
Estevao Willian will be relishing the chance to prove himself up against fellow wonderkid Lamine Yamal, however it is becoming nearly impossible to drop Pedro Neto from the starting side.
The Portuguese international is contributing at both ends of the pitch, with Alejandro Garnacho and Jamie Gittens also starting to find their feet.