Cole Palmer Breaks Silence: Chelsea's Rising Star Delivers Cryptic Two-Word Injury Verdict

Cole Palmer has indicated he will return "soon" as he progresses through his rehabilitation from a groin problem.

The Chelsea playmaker hasn't featured since the season opener, pulling out of the pre-match warm-up before the commanding 5–1 victory against West Ham United due to what was subsequently confirmed as complications from a persistent groin complaint.

An official statement regarding Palmer, who has been absent for two matches and was compelled to pull out of England squad duties, hasn't been issued by Chelsea yet, though the Blues might not require one following Palmer's cryptic social media post.

"Soon back," he posted on Instagram—a message that drew enthusiastic responses from teammates Tosin Adarabioyo and João Pedro in the reply section.

Pedro has stepped up to fill Palmer's role at the heart of Chelsea's midfield during the Englishman's unavailability, with compatriot Estêvão also demonstrating his ability as an effective substitute in a more central position.

Looking for natural backup for Palmer, Chelsea unexpectedly secured a loan agreement for Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Facundo Buonanotte on Transfer Deadline Day, only to exclude the new arrival from their Champions League roster just two days afterward.

Buonanotte might make his Chelsea debut following the international window when the Blues visit Brentford, though there's optimism that Palmer could be available again after an additional week of treatment.

Supporters are also anxiously waiting for news on Liam Delap's condition, who sustained an injury in the last fixture before the current pause, creating a domino effect throughout the European transfer window as Chelsea looked to bolster their attacking options. Maresca optimistically suggested the summer acquisition might be sidelined for up to eight weeks, but recent reports indicate Delap could face an even more extended period away from action.