The reason Chelsea talisman missed win against London rivals

Football
23 Aug 2025 • 6:31 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • Chelsea's Cole Palmer was withdrawn from the starting line-up against West Ham just minutes before kick-off due to a suspected groin injury.
  • Manager Enzo Maresca confirmed the decision was precautionary, as Palmer had not been 100% in the days prior and felt something during the warm-up.
  • Brazilian teenager Estevao Willian replaced Palmer at the last minute, making his full Premier League debut.
  • Despite Palmer's absence and conceding an early goal, Chelsea went on to secure a dominant 5-1 victory over West Ham.
  • Maresca praised the team's strong reaction to the setback, while teammate Marc Cucurella highlighted Estevao's impressive performance and the squad's depth.

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