FC Barcelona receives a significant boost as a key Chelsea star is ruled out of their upcoming UEFA Champions League clash.
Amid an injury crisis sidelining Dani Olmo, Robert Lewandowski, and Ferran Torres, Hansi Flick’s side faces a packed schedule.
However, as they look ahead to a pivotal UEFA Champions League match against Chelsea on November 25, 2025, at Stamford Bridge, a significant update from the Blues’ camp has handed Barcelona a golden opportunity to gain an edge in Europe.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Chelsea’s star Cole Palmer will miss the clash due to a groin injury sustained against Manchester United on September 20.
The 23-year-old attacking midfielder, a linchpin with four goals and five assists in nine Premier League games, faces a six-week absence, confirmed by manager Enzo Maresca.
“I was wrong. Unfortunately, he’ll be out for six more weeks,” Maresca said, emphasizing efforts to ensure Palmer’s full recovery.
His absence also rules him out of the London derbies against Tottenham and Arsenal.
Palmer’s unavailability is a blow for Chelsea, who rely on his creativity to unlock defenses, leaving Maresca short of options alongside injuries to Benoit Badiashile, Dario Essugo, and Levi Colwill.
For Barcelona, this boosts their chances, with Lamine Yamal and Marcus Rashford likely to exploit Chelsea’s depleted squad.
Flick’s high-pressing system, already tested by injuries, gains a tactical advantage, especially after their Bayern Munich defeat exposed vulnerabilities.
Barcelona’s focus remains on managing their own fitness concerns, with La Masia talents like Pedro Fernandez Dro stepping up.
The Chelsea clash, a rematch of their 2024/25 group stage draw, is crucial for advancing in the Champions League.
Palmer’s absence could tilt the balance, allowing Flick to lean on Raphinha’s potential return and Pau Cubarsí’s defensive solidity.
As Girona looms on October 18, this news fuels Barcelona’s European ambitions, offering a chance to assert dominance in a defining November showdown.
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