Key Takeaways:
- Enzo Maresca confirmed that Cole Palmer is fit and available to face Arsenal on Sunday
- Chelsea, currently second in the table on 23 points, will host Premier League leaders Arsenal, who are on 29 points after 12 matches
- Estevao Willian was named Player of the Match following his performance in Chelsea’s 3-0 win over Barcelona in the Champions League on Tuesday
Team News and Fitness Updates
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has announced that Cole Palmer is ready to return for the Blues’ Premier League fixture against Arsenal this weekend. Palmer, sidelined since mid-September, is available and may even feature from the start when the league leaders visit Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
Maresca addressed the media at Cobham, stating, ‘Yes, Cole is available for both [to play and to start],’ while adding that Dario Essugo also took part in the morning training session after Chelsea’s recent European exploits.
🚨🔵 Enzo Maresca: “Palmer is back and he’s probably our best player. We are happy he's back”.
“Now we need to give him time to be 100% match fit”. pic.twitter.com/aOrlBVz9aj
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 28, 2025
Recent Performances and Standout Players
Chelsea approach this high-profile London derby in buoyant mood following their emphatic 3-0 Champions League victory over Barcelona on Tuesday. Estevao Willian delivered an outstanding display against the Spanish side, scoring a memorable goal and earning the Player of the Match accolade from supporters via the Chelsea Official App.
Palmer and Estevao Partnership: A Prospect for the Future
During the press conference, Maresca was questioned about the possibility of Palmer featuring alongside Estevao in future line-ups. The Italian hinted positively at the prospect, expressing collective happiness over Palmer’s recovery: ‘Having Cole back is good news and everyone is happy.’ Maresca emphasised the impact of Palmer’s return, highlighting his contributions in previous matches and the value he brings to the squad going forward.
Commenting further, Maresca discussed the potential of both Estevao and Palmer featuring together, stating: ‘Yes, they can play together. It depends against which team and the game plan, but for sure the fans are excited to watch both together. We are also excited, thinking at the end we always need balance between the two phases.’
Upcoming Challenge Against Arsenal
Chelsea are preparing for another significant encounter at Stamford Bridge, as they look to close the six-point gap to Arsenal, who top the table with 29 points after 12 matches. The Blues, currently second with 23 points, seek to build on the momentum gained from their recent victory over Barcelona.
Maresca highlighted the importance of every match during this congested period, noting, ‘I said it’s another big game on Sunday,’ and acknowledging the tough run of fixtures that sees Chelsea face Leeds next Wednesday.
| Team | Points | Matches Played | Current Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arsenal | 29 | 12 | 1st |
| Chelsea | 23 | 12 | 2nd |
Looking Ahead
Maresca concluded by stressing the importance of securing results in all competitions, with fixture congestion demanding focus and consistency from his squad: ‘For sure, beating Barcelona is good and if we are able to beat Arsenal, it’s a nice feeling. But in the end it’s three points and then on Wednesday we have Leeds which is another three points. We will try our best to beat Arsenal and then we will see.’
