Chelsea have struggled through a large portion of the 2025/26 season without having Cole Palmer available for selection.
Palmer missed the best part of three months due to a groin injury, making the task for Enzo Maresca to succeed even more difficult.
The England international has found the net twice since returning, and completed his first 90 minutes in the 1-1 draw against Manchester City.
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
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However, three goals in 11 appearances this season is a worrying stat line for anyone who is familiar with how good Palmer is, especially in comparison to the 27 goals and 15 assists he notched up in his first season at the club.
Cole Palmer of Chelsea looks on during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Chelsea
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
Cole Palmer’s form is a major concern for Chelsea
Cole Palmer Stats Games Goals Assists
2023/24 48 27 15
2024/25 52 18 14
2025/26 12 4 0
The former City man is dropping increasingly deep to get involved in proceedings during Chelsea games, although this is in turn taking him far away from areas where he can hurt opponents.
Another problem for whoever is in charge is this – how do you go about dropping Palmer?
The likes of Joao Pedro and Estevao Willian were on the bench to face Fulham, and are both candidates to feature in Palmer’s position in upcoming games.
But, for a new manager in Liam Rosenior to make the decision to drop the club’s star man is going to be hard to make, with him already facing an uphill battle getting some sections of the fanbase on side.
John Obi Mikel questions whether Chelsea have hired the right man…😬
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John Obi Mikel on Liam Rosenior's appointment
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Cole Palmer’s recent form needs addressing by Liam Rosenior
Palmer’s form has become Rosenior’s big issue upon arriving at the club, with him so often the go-to source for goals and creativity since his arrival.
While the new manager’s style of play is not dissimilar to what was played under Maresca, he will certainly be looking to put his own stamp on things going forwards.
This could include using Liam Delap and Andrey Santos more, after previous stints working with them at Hull City and Strasbourg.
It is likely that Palmer will retain his place in the side for now, but if Chelsea want to qualify for the Champions League next season they are going to need him to start performing, and fast.
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