Champions League: major blow for Chelsea ahead of the showdown with Arsenal and Barça

Chelsea’s attacking midfielder, Cole Palmer, will be out for several weeks after fracturing a toe in a domestic accident, Enzo Maresca announced Friday at a press conference. Just as he was about to get back on the pitch following a groin injury sustained in September, the England international saw his return abruptly jeopardized.

According to his coach, the mishap was as unexpected as it was unusual: “Unfortunately, he had an accident at home and stubbed his toe. Nothing serious, but he won’t be back for a while”, Maresca explained. This fracture is expected to rule Palmer out of the Blues’ next three fixtures, against Burnley, Barcelona and Arsenal.

On the length of his absence, the Italian coach remained cautious: “We don’t know yet. What is certain is that he’ll be out this week and next. ” Another setback for Chelsea, who had hoped to quickly get back one of their main attacking assets.