Chelsea will protect Cole Palmer for Atalanta game, as the club is easing him back after his injury spell.
Careful Plan For Return Of Cole Palmer
Cole Palmer’s stop-start season has pushed Chelsea to take a strong path with him, and this week shows exactly that. He fought through a tough injury run and finally stepped back into the starting side against Bournemouth.
Now, the club wants to avoid rushing him into another heavy workload. His performance at the weekend was a reminder of how much he brings to the team. But, it also showed how key it is to pace his recovery.
Enzo Maresca cleared the air by saying, “Cole, it is part of his process in this moment. He’s not available. He can’t play two games in a row in three days so we’ve planned that and it’s just a way to protect him.”
This isn’t a setback or a sudden worry. It’s a move shaped around long-term thinking, something Chelsea haven’t always been known for in recent years. Palmer has not travelled with the squad for the UCL game against Atalanta. That decision looks like a case of short-term sacrifice for long-term gain.
Focus Shifts To Squad Depth In Europe
With Palmer out, Chelsea now turn to the rest of the group to handle the pressure in Bergamo. The attack will look different without their creative spark, but this is where Maresca needs others to step up.
The timing of the fixture list leaves little room for risk, especially with domestic games coming fast. Managing key players in tight schedules often decides how strong a team finishes the season. The West London side seem to be taking that route with clear intent.
Author’s opinion:
Resting Palmer is the smart call. Chelsea need him fully fit, not half ready. This move shows Maresca is thinking beyond one match, and that’s a good sign for the club’s future.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
