Enzo Maresca gives update on Cole Palmer’s injury

Chelsea’s emphatic 5–1 victory over West Ham United at the London Stadium should have been a night of unreserved celebration for their supporters, but the joy was dampened by an untimely setback. Star midfielder Cole Palmer suffered an injury during the pre-match warm-up, leaving fans concerned despite the resounding win.

The England international, who has been one of Chelsea’s most influential players, was forced to withdraw just before kick-off. Manager Enzo Maresca had little choice but to draft in youngster Estevao as a late replacement — a decision that worked in the moment but did little to ease the anxiety among Blues supporters. Their worry stems from the fact that Palmer is now the second Chelsea player sidelined by injury in quick succession, following Levi Colwill’s setback.

Speaking after the match, Maresca offered some insight into Palmer’s condition:

“Cole was not 100% in the last few days. He tried in the warm-up to play, but he was not right. We will see how bad it is. He was already not 100% against Palace but tried to make an effort for the club.”

The game itself began in dramatic fashion. West Ham struck first through Lucas Paquetá, who stunned Chelsea with a well-taken goal inside the opening five minutes.

However, the Hammers’ early lead quickly unraveled when João Pedro restored parity for the visitors in the 15th minute. From that moment on, Chelsea seized full control.

Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernández both found the net before half-time, ensuring the Blues went into the break with a commanding advantage. The dominance continued in the second half, with Moisés Caicedo adding a fourth and Trevoh Chalobah completing the rout to seal an impressive 5–1 scoreline.

Despite the clinical display, all eyes remain on Palmer’s recovery. Since joining from Manchester City two seasons ago, the midfielder has been central to Chelsea’s resurgence, contributing goals, creativity, and leadership. With a crucial clash against Brentford on the horizon, fans will be desperately hoping their playmaker’s injury is not a serious one.