The anticipation is building for the return of Cole Palmer, a pivotal figure sidelined by injury. His absence has been keenly felt, leaving a noticeable void in the team’s dynamic.
Manager Enzo Maresca offered a cautiously optimistic update, hinting at a possible return around November 25th against Barcelona. However, he stressed the need for careful monitoring, acknowledging the delicate nature of Palmer’s recovery.
Currently, Palmer remains separated from team training, progressing on a day-to-day basis. Maresca openly admitted his desire to have Palmer available for every match, emphasizing the team’s enhanced performance with him on the pitch.
Alongside Palmer, Benoit Badiashile is nearing full fitness, a significant boost for the squad after the international break. This news provides a welcome counterpoint to the ongoing injury concerns.
The situation with Romeo Lavia presents a different challenge. After a prolonged period of injury struggles since his arrival, Lavia is now declared fully fit, but requires meticulous management.
Maresca drew a parallel between Lavia’s current state and Reece James’ recovery a year prior, highlighting the importance of preventing re-injury. The focus is squarely on building Lavia’s endurance and ensuring his long-term availability.
A carefully calibrated return to action is planned for Lavia, with recent appearances limited to 45, 60, and 70 minutes. The coaching staff is pleased with his progress, but prioritizes protecting him from another setback.
Maresca’s priority is simple: keep Lavia on the pitch. He recognizes the player’s potential and is determined to provide a stable environment for him to flourish and finally enjoy consistent playing time.
A minor issue sidelined Pedro Neto during a recent midweek match, but it’s not considered a serious concern. The team is navigating a landscape of recovery and careful reintegration as they push forward.
