Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has addressed concerns over Cole Palmer’s recent struggles.
Palmer is without a goal since January and has gone 13 games without an assist as Chelsea’s pursuit of a top-four finish falters.
Cole Palmer’s Goal Drought and Chelsea’s Decline
Palmer’s last goal contribution came in Chelsea’s 2-2 draw with Bournemouth in January.
Since then, the Blues have dropped from fourth to seventh in the Premier League, suffering a third consecutive defeat against Aston Villa.
The England international has cut a frustrated figure on the pitch, most notably during the Villa clash, where he displayed visible disappointment after a failed attacking move.
🚨🔵 Enzo Maresca: “I am not concerned about Cole Palmer and his form”.
“During the season he can have some moments where he struggles a little bit more. With Cole, we rely on Cole for everything. We need to rely on the team. We are not worried about Cole at all”. pic.twitter.com/Ss0VnWwHxy
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 24, 2025
Enzo Maresca Calls for Team Support
Despite Palmer’s dip in form, Maresca remains confident in his player.
Speaking ahead of Chelsea’s Premier League fixture against Southampton, he stressed the need for the entire team to share the creative burden rather than relying solely on Palmer.
“I’m always concerned about general performances, but I’m not concerned about Cole because he is a human being,” Maresca said.
“During the season, he can have some moments where he is struggling a little bit more.”
The Chelsea boss added, “The problem with Cole is probably that we rely on him for everything. I said since we started that we need to rely on the team.
“For sure, we need big players, top players like Cole, but we are not worried about him at all.”
Palmer’s Frustration Stems from Chelsea’s Poor Form
Maresca also defended Palmer’s recent performances, highlighting that the 21-year-old’s struggles are a reflection of Chelsea’s overall form.
The Blues have found it difficult to convert chances into goals, with Maresca urging his squad to be more clinical in front of goal.
“Cole is just upset because we are not winning games, no more than that,” Maresca explained.
“Every game, we expect from him a goal or assist, so it’s difficult. He’s a human being.”
Chelsea fans – and many FPL managers – will hope Palmer can rediscover his best form when the Blues face Southampton.
With Chelsea’s attack misfiring, Maresca’s call for collective responsibility will be crucial in reigniting their top-four ambitions.
As Palmer looks to end his goal drought, the upcoming fixture could serve as a turning point for both the player and the team.
