Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has hinted at a possible position switch for the club’s top scorer, Cole Palmer, following injuries to key attacking players. With both Nicolas Jackson and Marc Guiu sidelined, Maresca may have no choice but to get creative with his lineup—possibly deploying Palmer as a false nine in upcoming fixtures against Brighton.
Chelsea’s Injury Woes in Attack
Chelsea’s attack has been hit hard by injuries, with both Jackson and Guiu picking up problems during their recent 2-1 victory over West Ham United. Jackson suffered a hamstring issue, while Guiu’s adductor injury is expected to keep him out for weeks or even months.
With fixtures coming thick and fast, Chelsea is suddenly facing a striker shortage. The only other natural forward available is Christopher Nkunku, who has often been used in a deeper role rather than leading the line.
Maresca’s Joke—And His Serious Alternative
Speaking to the media, Maresca jokingly suggested that he might have to play up front himself. However, he quickly turned to a more realistic option—Cole Palmer.
“Cole has played as a No.9 before,” Maresca noted. “We can find some different solutions. At the moment, we have not decided anything because we are still waiting for Nico [Jackson], and from there, we will see different options.”
Palmer has been a standout performer for Chelsea this season, thriving in his usual No.10 role in a 4-2-3-1 system. However, with his previous experience playing up front—both under Mauricio Pochettino at Chelsea and during his time in Manchester City’s youth setup—a shift to a striker role could be a temporary fix.
Chelsea’s Striker Depth and Missed Transfer Opportunities
The injury crisis up front has exposed Chelsea’s lack of depth in the striker department, especially following the decision to let João Félix leave on loan to AC Milan. The club’s only signing in the winter transfer window was teenage midfielder Mathis Amougou, leaving Maresca with limited attacking options.
Despite this, Maresca remains optimistic:
“In the summer, we will see if we need something different, not only in terms of striker but in general.”
For now, with a double-header against Brighton looming, Chelsea fans could soon see Cole Palmer leading the attack as Maresca looks for a way to navigate this unexpected crisis.
