Chelsea manager Maresca attributes Palmer’s difficulties to a ‘mental challenge.’

Chelsea’s Cole Palmer is experiencing a goal drought that has stretched to 16 matches, a situation that manager Enzo Maresca attributes more to mental blocks than to any tactical or technical failings.

The 22-year-old England international enjoyed a stunning first season with Chelsea, netting 27 goals and providing 15 assists across 48 appearances.

This season, however, he has only managed to score 14 times in all competitions to date.

Maresca remains confident that it’s just a matter of time before Palmer finds his scoring touch again.

“It’s definitely a mental issue, not a matter of tactics or technique,” Maresca explained to the media ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash at home against Everton, who currently sit 13th in the league.

“Cole is still the same player who netted 14 goals in 20 matches. The style hasn’t changed, the manager is unchanged, and the club remains the same. The only difference is his mental state at the moment.

“You can tell he’s a bit anxious because he genuinely wants to contribute to the team. It’s evident that he’s grappling with that pressure. However, he also looked elated after the Fulham match.

“It’s simply a question of whether we can secure wins. I’m certain he’ll start scoring again. If you look back at each game, he’s had at least one or two opportunities to score, so it’s not down to how the team is performing.”

At present, Chelsea holds sixth place in the Premier League standings with 57 points from 33 games as they vie for a spot in the Champions League next season. They are just two points behind Newcastle United, who occupy fifth place. At least five Premier League teams are assured a position in the 2025-26 Champions League.