Chelsea Forced to Replace Cole Palmer Before Kick-Off Against West Ham
Chelsea endured an unexpected setback ahead of their Premier League clash with West Ham United, as Cole Palmer was forced to withdraw from the starting XI after suffering an injury during the warm-up.
Manager Enzo Maresca confirmed that Palmer left the pitch after receiving treatment from the club’s medical staff at the London Stadium. His absence was a major blow, given his influence on Chelsea’s attack over the past two seasons.
Estevão Makes First Premier League Start
In Palmer’s place, Brazilian winger Estevão Willian was handed his first Premier League start. The 17-year-old had already impressed during a cameo in Chelsea’s 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace, and Maresca turned to him to inject creativity and energy into the attack.
Early Drama as West Ham Strike First
The Blues’ night got off to a difficult start when Lucas Paquetá opened the scoring in just the sixth minute. The Brazilian midfielder picked up the ball in midfield, surged forward, and unleashed a spectacular 25-yard strike into the top corner, leaving Robert Sánchez helpless in goal.
Chelsea responded quickly, however. João Pedro equalized nine minutes later with a powerful header from a corner. Soon after, West Ham thought they had restored their lead through Niclas Füllkrug, but VAR intervened to rule the goal out for offside.
Chelsea Take the Lead
In the 25th minute, Chelsea turned the game around as Pedro Neto volleyed home a pinpoint cross from João Pedro, giving Maresca’s side a 2-1 lead.
Palmer’s Absence a Major Concern
Despite Chelsea’s resilience on the pitch, Palmer’s injury casts a shadow over the evening. Since joining the Blues, the 22-year-old has become their most influential player, contributing 37 goals and 19 assists in the last two Premier League campaigns.
Remarkably consistent, Palmer has rarely missed games—only two through illness (both against Arsenal) and one suspension for yellow card accumulation last December. His sudden withdrawal against West Ham highlights just how crucial he has been to Chelsea’s attack.
What It Means Going Forward
Chelsea will now be anxiously awaiting updates on Palmer’s condition as the season continues. With fixtures piling up, Enzo Maresca faces the challenge of reorganizing his frontline while hoping his star midfielder makes a swift recovery.