Chelsea’s crucial Premier League clash against Arsenal on Sunday is shrouded in uncertainty regarding the availability of star player Cole Palmer. The forward suffered a painful challenge from Manchester United’s Lisandro Martinez during last week’s match, raising questions about his fitness.

Palmer has been a standout performer this season, contributing seven goals and five assists in the Premier League, a continuation of his impressive form from last year. Chelsea will be eager to see him return to the lineup as they aim to maintain their strong position in the league.

Coach Enzo Maresca provided an update on Palmer’s situation, revealing that the player had not yet participated in training ahead of the match. “Cole didn’t train [on Tuesday], so we will see today if he can train with us,” Maresca stated. “We hope [he will be available for Sunday]. We need to wait and see and then decide.”

Currently, Chelsea sits fourth in the Premier League, just above Arsenal on goal difference, while also leading their group in the Conference League after two matches. Despite their strong performances, Maresca acknowledged the challenge of balancing team selection, particularly with star players like Joao Felix and Christopher Nkunku vying for playing time.

“We need defensive balance and we cannot play with Joao, Cole, and Christo together,” Maresca explained. I would like to give him more minutes in the Premier League, but we also have to defend.