Coach Enzo Maresca confirmed the news at a press conference on 21/11, ahead of the match against Burnley.

"Palmer will definitely not play tomorrow, and will also miss the matches against Barca and Arsenal", he stated. "It's a minor accident, but the location of the little toe means wearing football boots will be very painful. We hope it's not serious, but Palmer certainly cannot return this week or next week."

Cole Palmer during the Chelsea vs. Man City FA Cup semifinal match at Wembley Stadium, London, United Kingdom on 20/4/2024. Photo: Reuters

Before this new injury, Palmer had updated images of his recovery process on social media, leading fans to believe he would soon return. Chelsea also hoped to welcome back their top playmaker for the Champions League group stage match against Barca next week. However, the unexpected accident disrupted the team's plans.

Coach Maresca admitted Palmer's absence is a significant loss, even though Chelsea has played well. Since the English player's injury, Chelsea has won 8 of 11 matches across all competitions. "The team is certainly stronger with Cole on the field. We all want him back, but until that happens, the whole team must find other solutions", the 45-year-old coach added.

There is currently no specific timetable for Palmer's return to play. Chelsea has prepared a special cushioned boot for him to reduce pressure on the fractured toe. If he feels comfortable, Palmer may begin light training on the field next week, but his return to competitive play remains uncertain.

Unusual injuries like Palmer's have precedents. Before the 2002 World Cup, Spanish goalkeeper Canizares dropped a shaving cream bottle. Broken glass cut his toe, severing a tendon and preventing him from participating. Iker Casillas started in his place and has held the number one position for the Spanish national team ever since.

Former center-back Rio Ferdinand also suffered a torn knee ligament simply by resting his foot on a table while watching tivi, during his time at Leeds United.

Compiled by Hoang An