Leeds Vs Chelsea: Enzo Maresca Intends To Give Cole Palmer Playtime

JAKARTA - Enzo Maresca said Cole Palmer will return to play after a 2.5-month absence from Chelsea against Leeds United on Thursday, December 4, 2025, early morning WIB.

The root problem has kept Palmer out since Chelsea's 1-2 defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford on September 20, 2025.

Palmer was supposed to play in Chelsea's match against Burnley, Barcelona, and Arsenal last week, but the number 10 player suffered a broken leg in a home accident delaying his return to the pitch.

He was a substitute who was not played when Chelsea drew 1-1 against leaders Arsenal last weekend.

However, Maresca said at a press conference on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, that she intends to give Palmer her first playing minute at Elland Road.

"He's ready. His last match was on the bench. Of course, the player's condition is more complicated for Cole because now he needs to come back in terms of fitness."

"He's ready, he can start. The idea of this match is to start giving playing minutes until he can play 90 minutes," said the Italian coach.

Chelsea have only lost twice in all competitions since Palmer's last appearance, up to third in the 2025/2026 Premier League standings.