Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has revealed that star midfielder Cole Palmer was left out of the squad for their emphatic 5-1 victory over West Ham United on Friday night due to a groin issue.
Palmer, who has been instrumental for the Blues, was notably absent from the matchday lineup at the London Stadium as Chelsea secured their first Premier League win of the season.
Speaking after the match, Maresca explained that the 22-year-old had been struggling in the days leading up to the game.
“Cole, in the last four or five days, he was not 100 per cent,” Maresca said. “Today, he tried in the warm-up but he felt something, so we preferred to not take any risks. We will see in the next hours if it’s something important or not.”
Palmer’s absence opened the door for 18-year-old Brazilian forward Estevão Willian to make his first Premier League start, a move that showcased the depth and promise of Chelsea’s youthful squad.
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Despite falling behind early to a stunning strike from Lucas Paquetá, Chelsea responded with authority. Goals from Joao Pedro, Pedro Neto, Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo, and Trevoh Chalobah ensured a dominant comeback and a convincing three points for the visitors.
The result marks a strong statement from Maresca’s side and will ease early pressure as they continue to find form under the new boss. All eyes will now be on Palmer’s fitness update in the coming days as Chelsea prepare for their next fixture.
