Enzo Maresca refutes claims blaming tactical setup for Cole Palmer's dip in form

Enzo Maresca has rejected claims that he is responsible for Cole Palmer’s recent dip in form, admitting that the Chelsea forward is “worried.”

Palmer enjoyed a sensational debut season with the Blues but is currently enduring a rough patch.

He has failed to score in his last 16 appearances for Chelsea, and the pressure is mounting for him to deliver.

This is especially challenging for Palmer, as he has not experienced such a prolonged slump since his £40million move from Manchester City to West London.

Despite speculation about Chelsea’s tactical approach affecting Cole Palmer, Maresca dismissed such notions.

Ahead of their upcoming match against Everton, the Italian manager emphasized that Palmer’s struggles stem primarily from psychological factors rather than tactical issues or ability.

Maresca told reporters: “For sure, it’s mental. I don’t think it’s tactical, I don’t think it’s technical, because Cole is still the same player who scored this season with us.

“The style of football we play is the same one. The manager is the same one. The club is the same one. So nothing changes around Cole and Cole doesn’t change.

“It’s just mentally at this moment. For sure, you can see that he is a little worried because he wants to help the team.”

Chelsea have the opportunity to send an early message to their Champions League qualification rivals this afternoon when they host Everton.

The Blues are one of five teams vying for a top-five finish in the Premier League, but they go into the game against the Toffees in sixth place, following midweek victories for Nottingham Forest and Manchester City.

However, with Forest and Man City facing each other in the FA Cup semi-finals on Sunday, Chelsea have a chance to capitalise on the situation.

A victory today would see them end the weekend in the top four. As for Everton, they have little to play for.

Their Premier League status is secured for another season, and with a top-half finish unlikely, their main motivation is to finish above Manchester United and Tottenham.