Chelsea's Palmer Blow Ahead of Barcelona Clash
Chelsea will be without their influential playmaker, Cole Palmer, for tonight's highly anticipated Champions League encounter with Barcelona at Stamford Bridge. The England international's frustrating 2025-26 season continues, as a return from a persistent groin issue has been derailed by an untimely fractured toe.
Palmer was on the verge of making his comeback this week but suffered the new setback after stubbing his toe on a door at home. Although he has been training in a specially designed protective boot, manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed the number ten will not be involved against the Spanish giants and is a major doubt for Sunday's Premier League showdown with Arsenal.
Team News and Predicted Lineups
There is more positive news elsewhere in the squad. Reece James was substituted at half-time during Saturday's confident 2-0 victory over Burnley, but Maresca clarified this was a pre-planned move and not due to a fresh injury concern.
Moises Caicedo and Wesley Fofana were both rested at the weekend to manage their workloads and are now fresh and ready for this pivotal week. The Burnley match also saw the successful returns of Enzo Fernandez and Pedro Neto, who both scored, while Benoit Badiashile also made his comeback from injury.
After a busy international break with Brazil, Estevao Willian is in contention to return to the side this evening, with Alejandro Garnacho also pushing for a starting role. The only confirmed absentees are Romeo Lavia, who remains out after a recent setback, and Dario Essugo, who is not expected back until January.
For Barcelona, Marcus Rashford is predicted to feature after recovering from the flu that kept him out of Sunday's win over Athletic Club. The England forward has been in sensational form in Europe this season, netting four goals, including a brace against Newcastle United. Raphinha made his long-awaited return from a two-month injury off the bench at the weekend, but Pedri and Gavi remain unavailable.
How to Watch the Match
The Champions League fixture between Chelsea and Barcelona kicks off at 8pm tonight (Tuesday 25 November). Fans in the UK can watch the match live on TNT Sports 1, with a live stream available via the Discovery+ app.
