Cole Palmer has been ruled out of action for Chelsea in recent weeks due to a groin injury. The England forward has now been spotted in Dubai during the international break, raising questions about his ongoing rehabilitation.
Palmer was photographed with supporters while in Dubai, continuing his recovery from the groin issue that has troubled him since the start of the 2025/26 season. The 23-year-old has managed just 140 minutes of play since September, underscoring the severity of his condition.
Earlier in the season, Palmer was withdrawn from the starting line-up against West Ham United at the last minute. He then spent another two weeks receiving treatment before making a brief comeback off the bench against Brentford, where he scored. However, just seven days later, he was substituted early during the loss at Manchester United and has subsequently missed the next four fixtures.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has dismissed any possibility of Palmer’s involvement in the recent victory over Liverpool. Speaking last Friday, Maresca said, “Cole is still out. I don’t have any updates at the moment. We have a meeting this week to see how he is, and we will then decide [whether he can return after the international break].”
While many Chelsea players have been traveling for international duty, Palmer has also been away from west London. Several photographs have emerged on social media showing him with supporters in Dubai. The exact reason for his trip remains unclear; some speculate he might have been consulting a specialist, while others believe he was granted time off after weeks of limited training at Cobham.
The Daily Mail reports that Palmer is expected to be sidelined for weeks rather than months, with a return anticipated in November. The injury is not severe enough to require surgery. Notably, a two-week domestic break is scheduled for Chelsea that month, making it unlikely Palmer will travel to St George’s Park for training.
England manager Thomas Tuchel has described Palmer’s injury as “chronic,” raising concerns about his fitness. Palmer has not received a Three Lions call-up this season, and it appears he will remain out of contention for the rest of 2025.
Given his importance to Chelsea in recent years, the club will be eager for Palmer’s swift return, but they will prioritize his long-term health over a rushed comeback. Despite missing the match against Liverpool, Palmer was actively involved in the post-match celebrations. After celebrating with match-winner Estevao Willian, defender Jorrel Hato jumped onto Palmer enthusiastically, causing him to feel immediate discomfort in his groin.
Chelsea fans will hope for positive news on Palmer’s recovery following the upcoming medical review, as they look forward to the talented forward’s return to action.
https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/cole-palmer-injury-return-timeline-36036584
