Cole Palmer has used his time out injured to hit the gym and “noticeably change” his physique, a report has revealed, with Chelsea hoping he can return from two months on the sidelines to feature against Barcelona in the Champions League on Tuesday, Nov. 25.
The 23-year-old has been battling a groin injury since Chelsea’s successful FIFA Club World Cup campaign, managing just four appearances for the Blues during the 2025–26 season so far.
Palmer has been in the treatment room since aggravating the issue against Manchester United on Sept. 20, with Chelsea deciding then to take their time with the Englishman’s recovery rather than rushing him back into action.
The attacking midfielder, regarded as one of the best in the world in his position, was initially expected to return after the October international break, but Chelsea delayed his comeback until after the November internationals. Now back on the grass at the club’s Cobham training ground, he’s edging closer to a much-anticipated return.
report that the blockbuster battle with Barcelona has been “loosely suggested” as the fixture in which Palmer could make his comeback, with the subsequent clash against Arsenal on Sunday, Nov. 30 in the Premier League serving as a backup date.
Palmer, who has impressed those at Chelsea with his dedication and hard work during his injury layoff, is determined to return to the pitch as swiftly as possible—especially with one eye on Thomas Tuchel’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad.
