Chelsea are increasingly concerned about Cole Palmer’s long-term fitness, with fears mounting that the 23-year-old is now dealing with a chronic groin problem that could keep him out for an extended spell.
Palmer picked up the injury during pre-season but managed it into the new season, but has since been sidelined after limping off against Manchester United last month.
The issue has already forced him to miss key games against Liverpool, Brighton, and Benfica, and his expected return against Nottingham Forest now looks uncertain.
Tuchel sounds alarm on Palmer’s fitness
England manager Thomas Tuchel has expressed deep concern about Palmer’s condition, describing it as a “dangerous” injury that could easily become chronic if not managed properly.
“The priority is for him to play without pain because a groin issue can become chronic very fast,” Tuchel said while explaining his decision to omit the player from the latest England squad.
“When he’s fit, he’s a match-winner for both club and country, but right now, it would surprise me if he featured against Nottingham Forest.”
Tuchel’s comments have cast further doubt over Palmer’s immediate availability and his chances of being fit in time for the 2026 World Cup campaign.
Chelsea maintain silence as speculation grows
According to Daily Telegraph reporter Matt Law, the situation has become increasingly concerning due to Chelsea’s lack of transparency about Palmer’s recovery progress.
“Tuchel called it a chronic groin injury and said he’d be very surprised if Palmer plays the next Chelsea game,” Law said on the London Is Blue podcast.
“Chelsea are saying it’s an issue they’re managing, but from what I’ve seen, it doesn’t look positive at all.”
Key matches at risk
Palmer was initially expected to return against Nottingham Forest on October 18, but that now appears doubtful.
If his recovery drags on, he could also miss Chelsea’s Champions League clash with Ajax, the Premier League game against Sunderland, and the Carabao Cup tie against Wolves.
The Blues are hoping to have him back in time for their high-profile London derby against Tottenham on November 1.
However, if the problem turns out to be chronic, Palmer’s return could take much longer, a major blow to both Chelsea’s season and his World Cup ambitions.
