Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca believes Cole Palmer’s recent difficulties in front of goal are down to mental pressure rather than any technical or tactical issues. The 22-year-old England forward has gone 16 matches without scoring, despite finding the net 14 times in his first 23 appearances of the season.
Chelsea has dropped from second to sixth place during Palmer’s goalless run, losing their grip on a Champions League spot. Despite this, Palmer has registered more shots than any other Premier League player during this period, recording 41 attempts on goal.
“For sure it’s a mental thing, it’s not tactical or technical,” Maresca explained. “Cole is still the same player who scored 14 goals earlier. The style of play, the coach, and the environment have not changed. It’s just a mental phase.”
Maresca added that Palmer appears anxious because he is eager to contribute to the team’s success. “You can see he’s a little bit worried because he wants to help the team,” he said. “But if you look game by game, he has had at least one or two chances in every match. It’s only a matter of time before he scores again.”
Maresca banned for Everton clash
Enzo Maresca will not be on the touchline for Chelsea’s match against Everton, as he is serving a one-match ban. Former goalkeeper and current assistant coach Willy Caballero will step into his role during the game.
Speaking about his absence, Maresca said, “They asked me if I needed someone next to me [in the stands]. I don’t know if I’ll be alone or with someone. I’ll try to manage things the way I always do.”
He emphasized the importance of leadership among the players in his absence, saying the senior members of the squad must step up and take more responsibility on the pitch.
Season viewed as progress, not failure
Despite Chelsea potentially missing out on a Champions League place next season, Maresca insists the campaign should not be seen as a failure. The Blues are still competing in the Conference League semi-finals.
Reflecting on the season, Maresca said, “Compared with the past two years, it is not a failure. How many times has Chelsea been in the Champions League positions recently? This season we have been there for almost the whole campaign. It is definitely an improvement.”
Maresca, in his first season at Stamford Bridge, remains confident that the club is moving in the right direction.
