Chelsea Handed Fresh Injury Setback as Key Playmaker could miss Arsenal's clash

Chelsea's Cole Palmer may miss the much-anticipated Premier League clash against Arsenal this Sunday after sustaining a knee injury in the recent match against Manchester United as reported by Daily Express.

The 22-year-old limped off the pitch at Old Trafford after a tackle from United's Lisandro Martinez, a challenge head coach Enzo Maresca described as "not a normal one."

This incident, which took place in stoppage time and resulted in a yellow card for Martinez, has left Palmer unable to train since.

"He didn't train (Tuesday), we'll see today if he is able to train with us," Maresca stated.

With just days left before the game, the Chelsea manager admitted, "Hopefully he'll be ready (for Arsenal), but we need to wait and see, then decide."

When asked if Palmer might miss the Sunday fixture, Maresca confirmed there was indeed a possibility, citing the recent absence from training and the severity of the challenge.

"The tackle it's quite clear was not a normal one. But hopefully, he can be back," he added.

Palmer has been instrumental for Chelsea this season, emerging as a key figure under Maresca's management with an impressive seven goals.

Despite his absence in training, Palmer remains hopeful for a return, though he won't participate in Thursday's Conference League game against Armenian side FC Noah due to eligibility restrictions.

Maresca is expected to test alternate plans during this match as he makes several lineup changes.