Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has made a significant decision regarding Cole Palmer’s involvement ahead of the club’s Carabao Cup quarter-final meeting with Cardiff City in midweek. The call comes during a difficult 2025–26 campaign for both Chelsea and the England international, with Palmer spending large portions of the season sidelined through injury.
Palmer made a welcome return to the starting XI last weekend as the Blues secured a 2-0 Premier League victory over Everton, with the attacking midfielder getting his name on the scoresheet. However, despite his impact, Maresca has opted to prioritise the long-term fitness of one of his most influential players.
Palmer is still managing his fitness after his injury return
Although Palmer played from the start against Everton and delivered an immediate contribution, the 23-year-old has made it clear that he is still some way from full fitness. The Chelsea playmaker has been cautious about his recovery and is keen to avoid pushing his body too hard too soon.
Speaking after the Everton win, Palmer explained that his main focus has been on avoiding a setback. He admitted that he did not want to rush his comeback and risk aggravating the injury that has kept him out for an extended period. While he enjoyed being back on the pitch, Palmer acknowledged that he is still managing his condition and working gradually towards peak sharpness.
The England international also revealed that the spell on the sidelines was the longest absence of his career, which made his return even more satisfying. Starting the match and scoring was a boost, especially after what he described as a challenging run of fixtures for the team. Palmer highlighted the physical demands of playing every few days, noting that travel and recovery make consistency difficult during a congested schedule.
In a later interview with BBC Sport, Palmer reinforced the message that his recovery remains ongoing. He stressed that he is still dealing with the injury and that his progress is being carefully monitored by Chelsea’s medical staff. According to the midfielder, it is very much a day-by-day process, with the priority being steady improvement rather than immediate perfection.
Maresca confirms Palmer will miss cup clash
With the Carabao Cup quarter-final against Cardiff approaching, Maresca was asked directly about Palmer’s availability. The Chelsea boss confirmed that the club has decided not to risk the player in such a quick turnaround, making it clear that the midfielder will be rested for the midweek fixture.
Maresca explained that Chelsea has several players who require careful management due to workload and fitness concerns, and Palmer falls firmly into that category. He emphasised that protecting key players is a central part of the club’s current strategy, especially given the intense schedule the squad has faced over the past two weeks.
According to Maresca, Palmer is not yet in a position where he can safely play two matches in three days. As a result, the midfielder will be unavailable for the cup tie but is expected to be fit enough to return at the weekend. The Italian coach also hinted at broader rotation, pointing out that some players have featured in as many as five matches over a 12 or 13-day period and are in need of recovery time.
Chelsea boss warns of Cardiff threat
Despite Cardiff City playing in League One, Maresca was quick to warn against any sense of complacency ahead of the quarter-final. The Chelsea manager spoke highly of Cardiff head coach Brian Barry-Murphy and praised the work he has done since taking charge.
Maresca revealed his personal connection to Barry-Murphy, explaining that the pair worked closely at Manchester City, where Maresca previously coached the Under-23 side before Barry-Murphy succeeded him. He described Cardiff as a well-organised team that plays attractive football and consistently gets results.
The Chelsea boss labelled the match a potentially dangerous fixture, stressing that his side must approach it with full focus and respect. He also reminded his players that a place in the semi-finals is at stake, making the contest an important opportunity despite the absence of some key figures.
England is watching Palmer’s recovery closely
Palmer’s fitness situation extends beyond Chelsea’s immediate concerns. England manager Thomas Tuchel is also monitoring the midfielder’s progress closely as preparations continue for the 2026 World Cup in North America.
With the tournament now only months away, England will be eager for Palmer to return to full health and rediscover his best form. His creativity and goal threat have already made him a key figure for the national side, meaning any lingering injury issues would be a concern at the international level.
While Palmer will sit out Tuesday’s Carabao Cup quarter-final, he is expected to be back in contention for Chelsea’s next Premier League fixture against Newcastle United on December 20. For now, the focus remains on managing his workload carefully and ensuring that his return is both sustainable and successful for club and country alike.