Cole Palmer’s long-awaited Chelsea return is sure to be impacted by Moises Caicedo’s suspension.
The vibes around Chelsea are high after a week in which two of Europe’s top sides were left frustrated after visits to Stamford Bridge.
The sending off is the big story of the weekend’s clash with Arsenal. Gary Lineker thinks Caicedo’s dismissal was harsh, but it’s not going to be overturned.
Caicedo will miss Chelsea’s next three league fixtures, and might force a change in strategy for Enzo Maresca in relation to Palmer’s reintroduction.
Cole Palmer at Chelsea training ground
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Cole Palmer even more important in Caicedo’s absence
There was a buzz of excitement around Chelsea last week, with Maresca announcing Palmer’s availability ahead of Arsenal.
He would be left on the bench on Sunday, but seeing him back on the sideline was nonetheless a welcome development.
Now, though, his availability is even more important with Caicedo out of contention until Christmas. Maresca has hinted at resting Reece James for Leeds, which means the options to man the engine room are few and far between.
Enzo Fernandez has been deployed in the 10 role while Palmer has been out, but it’s likely he and Andrey Santos will be required in the double pivot on Wednesday.
That means an open slot in the hub of the attack, which Maresca may need his talisman to fill prematurely.
Estevao and Joao Pedro are capable of playing there, but Palmer is obviously the ideal option.
How much is Cole Palmer worth?
Cole Palmer celebrates during FC Bayern München v Chelsea FC - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Chelsea will be wary of Cole Palmer
As exciting as the prospect of having Palmer back is, the Blues will be treading very carefully.
Any sort of aggravation could add another few weeks to his absence — something Maresca will be desperate to avoid.
But the strain Caicedo’s suspension has put on the Chelsea squad could force the Italian’s hand.
Sure, Chelsea have the depth to cover without bringing him straight back in, but there’s a risk of falling back into old habits that have been detrimental to title contention in seasons past.
Chelsea have done the hard job of taking points off Arsenal, but that work could be undone with a lapse against Leeds, Bournemouth or Everton.
Maresca has to strike a balance. He needs to ensure Palmer stays healthy, but he also needs to put his side in the best position to come through this pre-Christmas run unscathed.