why is cole palmer not playing

Cole Palmer is not playing due to a groin injury he sustained during the warm- up ahead of Chelsea's match against West Ham United. This injury forced him to withdraw just before the game and has kept him sidelined since. Chelsea's manager, Enzo Maresca, confirmed that Palmer will miss the Premier League clash against Fulham and that his condition is being monitored day by day. The injury is believed to be linked to the intense workload and schedule Chelsea has endured recently, including winning the FIFA Club World Cup and playing many matches with little rest. Palmer's absence reflects concerns about managing player fitness after a grueling season and a shortened pre-season period. His return date remains uncertain as he continues to recover from the groin issue.