“Play like a Football team” “Not individual Football” – Enzo Maresca sends clear message to Chelsea star after 3-0 defeat to Brighton
Cole Palmer is experiencing his first four-game Premier League goal drought since joining Chelsea in the summer of 2023. Despite this recent dip, his overall numbers remain impressive, with 14 goals and six assists this season, keeping him on track to match the 22-goal haul he recorded in 2023/24.
However, Palmer’s role under Enzo Maresca has seen a shift compared to his performances under Mauricio Pochettino last season. The Chelsea boss described him as “more a linking player”, a subtle but significant tweak in his responsibilities.
For Chelsea’s 3-0 defeat to Brighton, Maresca deployed Palmer in a central role without a recognised striker ahead of him. The idea was for the English playmaker to drop deeper, allowing Chelsea’s wide players to make runs beyond him. However, this approach failed to produce the desired effect.
Palmer’s passing map from the game highlights how he drifted across the forward line, trying to dictate play. But without a focal point in attack, his influence was limited, and for much of the match, he cut a frustrated figure.
Despite Palmer’s goal drought, Maresca was quick to defend him, emphasising that Chelsea’s attacking struggles are a collective issue.
“Football is a team, it’s not tennis,” the Italian coach said when questioned about Palmer’s lack of goals. “It’s not only Cole Palmer. We are all the same in this moment.”
With Chelsea’s lack of a fit centre-forward, Palmer has had to adapt to different roles, which may have contributed to his temporary slump in front of goal. However, Maresca will be hoping to find a solution soon, as Chelsea look to bounce back and regain momentum in the race for European qualification.