Maresca Backs Palmer Amid Goal Drought

2025-03-03

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has urged Cole Palmer to remain positive and continue working hard despite the forward’s recent goal drought. Palmer, Chelsea’s top scorer in the Premier League this season, has failed to find the net in his last seven appearances, including a 4-0 victory over Southampton on Tuesday night. Despite missing several chances during the match, Maresca emphasised that Palmer’s form is part of a natural cycle and that the 22-year-old should stay upbeat.

Maresca revealed he had a conversation with Palmer after the Southampton game, encouraging him to remain calm and focused. “He’s a human being, he’s missing some things, and now it’s how we react,” Maresca told TNT Sports. “Everything is normal. He’s happy, he’s okay.” The Chelsea boss also highlighted Palmer’s maturity, noting that the young forward has shared dressing rooms with top players and understands that even the best go through difficult periods.

Palmer, who joined Chelsea from Manchester City in 2023, has been a key figure for the Blues this season, scoring 14 goals and providing six assists in the Premier League. However, his recent struggles in front of goal have coincided with Chelsea’s inconsistent form, which has seen them drop points in recent weeks. Despite this, Maresca remains confident in Palmer’s ability to bounce back, stating, “We have no doubt he will score more goals.”

The win over Southampton saw Chelsea return to the top four, with goals from Christopher Nkunku, Pedro Neto, Levi Colwill, and Marc Cucurella. Maresca also praised Neto, who has been deployed in a false-nine role due to injuries, for his recent contributions. Meanwhile, the Chelsea manager called for patience from fans, who protested against the club’s ownership before the match, urging them to trust the process as the team aims for Champions League qualification.

As Chelsea prepare for upcoming fixtures, including a Europa Conference League clash and a Premier League match against Leicester, Maresca’s focus remains on maintaining momentum and supporting Palmer through his current challenges.

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