Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has firmly rejected suggestions that Cole Palmer’s dramatic scoring slump is down to tactical or technical issues. Speaking ahead of Chelsea’s must-win Premier League clash against Everton, Maresca insisted that Palmer’s ongoing 16-game goal drought is purely a “mental” challenge.
“Nothing has changed,” Maresca emphasized. “Cole Palmer is still the same player who scored 14 Premier League goals in 20 games earlier this season. The style of football we play is the same, the manager is the same, the club is the same. It’s just that mentally, at this moment, something is blocking him.” Maresca was keen to shield both his tactical philosophy and his player from criticism, arguing that Cole Palmer’s form dip is a natural part of a footballer’s journey.
A Must-Win Clash Against Everton
Chelsea’s encounter with Everton on Saturday is being billed as a must-win, not just for the team’s European ambitions, but also for Palmer’s confidence. The 22-year-old will return to a fixture where he previously excelled, scoring four goals in Chelsea’s emphatic 6-0 victory over Everton at Stamford Bridge last season under Mauricio Pochettino.
Maresca hopes history can repeat itself. “We try every game to put our best players in a position to be dangerous,” he said. “If you look back at each match, Cole Palmer still has one or two chances per game. The opportunity is there; it’s just about getting that first goal again.” With Champions League qualification hanging in the balance, Chelsea will be banking on Palmer rediscovering his scoring touch to help steer them to a strong finish.
Palmer Not Alone: Jackson’s Goal Drought Also a Concern
While much of the focus has been on Cole Palmer’s struggles, Maresca was also questioned about Nicolas Jackson, who has now gone 13 games without scoring. The Chelsea boss acknowledged that multiple players are enduring dry spells but refused to blame systemic issues within the team.
“The reality is that these things happen,” Maresca explained. “Sometimes, football is like this. You create the chances, but the ball doesn’t go in. We are working with them, giving them confidence, because once they find the net again, the goals will start flowing.” Maresca’s approach appears rooted in patience and belief, though the pressure is mounting as Chelsea’s European hopes hang in the balance.
Champions League Qualification Key to Summer Plans
Maresca admitted that Chelsea’s ability to qualify for next season’s UEFA Champions League will have a significant impact on their summer transfer strategy. Speaking candidly, the Italian coach stated, “Absolutely, yes,” when asked if European qualification would affect their spending power.
He emphasized the importance of reinforcing the squad but acknowledged that Champions League revenue and prestige are crucial bargaining tools. “It is important, not just for finances, but for attracting top players,” Maresca added. “We have big ambitions, and qualifying for the Champions League would send a clear message about where Chelsea is heading.”
Chelsea’s Faith in Palmer Remains Strong
Despite Cole Palmer’s struggles, Maresca made it clear that the club retains full confidence in the young star’s long-term value. Stressing that no drastic interventions are necessary, the Chelsea boss suggested patience will be key. “This is just football,” he said. “We have all seen top players go through spells like this. It’s about mental strength now, not about changing everything around him.”
Cole Palmer’s teammates and coaching staff are reportedly rallying around him, providing support behind the scenes. With crucial matches ahead, the hope within the Chelsea camp is that a single goal could break the dam and reignite Palmer’s formidable scoring instincts at a critical moment in their season.
