Why is Cole Palmer Not Playing in Chelsea vs Barcelona Tonight?

In a clash that brings so many memories back, Chelsea hosts Barcelona in the Champions League on Tuesday night. There will be no shortage of stars on both sides of the pitch. However, all eyes will be on the one player who won’t be there on the pitch. Find out the answer to is Cole Palmer is playing today in the Chelsea vs Barcelona game or not.

The star English midfielder Cole Palmer has been the standout player for the Blues ever since his move from Etihad Stadium. A few expected him to turn out the way he is right now. Chelsea invested in his potential and reaped rewards. However, this season has been rough for Palmer due to some niggling injuries. These are the same injuries that are preventing him from playing in the Chelsea vs Barcelona clash.

Cole Palmer Injury

Cole Palmer picked up a groin injury in September against Manchester United. At first, it was thought to be a minor injury, but after further diagnosis it was proven much serious than first anticipated. Enzo Maresca took the call to completely let the player rest for two months to not let it further aggravate. After spending more than two months in the treatment room, Palmer was expected to return after the November international break.

However, as he was nearing a return, he suffered a freak toe injury at home. It resulted in a broken toe, further putting him out for a week at least. It sees Cole Palmer miss crucial games against Barcelona and Arsenal. Maresca is hopeful of getting Palmer back sooner than expected.

What’s next for Cole Palmer?

Plenty of eyebrows were raised when the English club Chelsea forked out £42.5 million for a player without a full season in the Premier League. But Chelsea’s ownership saw the potential in Palmer that was ready to explode. In an epic debut season, he scored 25 goals and assisted 15 times in a Chelsea side that had little identity and helped them get European football.

Although his output decreased in his second season, he helped them win the European Conference League and played a starring role in their triumph at the Club World Cup. As Chelsea mounts an unlikely title challenge this season, they will be hoping Palmer joins the fold as soon as possible and helps them go all the way.