Chelsea without Cole Palmer still in top 3 of Premier League
After 11 rounds, Chelsea is in 3rd place with 20 points, having lost only 2 matches, although Cole Palmer has only played 3 matches. Coach Enzo Maresca said he will return after FIFA Days.
Without Cole Palmer for much of the opening period, Chelsea have climbed to third place after 11 Premier League games with 20 points and just two losses. This is a point better than the same period last season, reinforcing the feeling that the Blues are on the right track under coach Enzo Maresca.
| Index | Value |
|---|---|
| Position after 11 laps | 3 |
| Point | 20 |
| Number of losses | 2 |
| Cole Palmer in action in the Premier League | 3 matches |
| Palmer after 11 rounds last season | 7 goals, 5 assists |
Chelsea without Cole Palmer but still keep competitive pace
Compared to a year ago—when Maresca first took over and the team were struggling after two successive 12th- and 6th-place finishes—the picture is decidedly more positive. This is notable because Palmer, who was the fulcrum of last season’s attack with seven goals and five assists in just 11 games and was named in the FIFPRO World XI, has only started three Premier League games this season due to injury.
Three factors that create stability
Chelsea’s appeal comes from a combination of new signings, Maresca’s new year of Premier League experience, and a more mature squad of young players. The result is a style of play that relies less on individual impact, and more on a clear collective structure and a steady rhythm.
Squad depth amid tight schedule
It is worth noting that Chelsea have maintained their form despite being in the Champions League at the same time. This reflects the improved depth of their squad. The gap to leaders Arsenal is now much smaller than the gap they were to Liverpool at the same stage last season, suggesting the positive trajectory is holding.
Christmas Lessons and What's Different This Season
Last season, Chelsea were second at Christmas before slumping in the new year. This time, even without their core attacking players, they are showing a more varied approach to goal and are not reliant on a single source of creativity.
Waiting for Palmer to return
Manager Maresca confirmed Palmer will be back soon after the international break. That is a plus as Chelsea enter a busy end-of-year schedule. The Blues of the 2025/26 season are a more mature and confident version; Palmer’s absence has been a test of the depth and adaptability of the group.
Impact on the Premier League race
If Chelsea can maintain their winning streak without their most important player, they have the basis to dream further when Palmer returns. In the context of the fierce Premier League race, they have quietly consolidated their position as a real candidate for the title this season.
