Maresca Blames ‘Unfair’ Schedule for Palmer Omission in Chelsea’s Stalemate at Brentford”
The Blues had just 24 hours less recovery time than their opponents after defeating Tottenham 1-0 on Thursday. Palmer, who has now gone 12 games without a goal, was introduced in the 60th minute but failed to find a breakthrough, skying a late chance in stoppage time.
Enzo Maresca claimed Chelsea’s congested fixture schedule justified his decision to drop out-of-form forward Cole Palmer for Sunday’s 0-0 draw at Brentford.
The Blues had just 24 hours less recovery time than their opponents after defeating Tottenham 1-0 on Thursday. Palmer, who has now gone 12 games without a goal, was introduced in the 60th minute but failed to find a breakthrough, skying a late chance in stoppage time.
Despite Palmer’s struggles this season, Maresca insisted the short turnaround—not performance was the reason for his exclusion.
“We prepared the game as best we could after a demanding match on Thursday night,” the Chelsea boss said. “It was a tricky game hot weather, a dry pitch, and Brentford slowing the tempo. We created enough to win but just lacked the finish.”
He added: “Playing Thursday meant not everyone was 100%. The plan was to start one way and finish stronger. It nearly worked, but the difference between halves wasn’t enough. Was the scheduling unfair? At this stage of the season, yes. Twenty-four hours makes a difference.”
Brentford manager Thomas Frank agreed, criticizing the upcoming expanded Club World Cup, which Chelsea will feature in as “ridiculous.” “Another unnecessary tournament. Will I watch it? No chance!” he quipped.
Chelsea, currently fourth in the Premier League, now turn focus to Thursday’s UEFA Conference League quarter-final at Legia Warsaw. However, Maresca stressed that Champions League qualification remains the priority.
“Our target is to bring Chelsea back where it belongs in the Champions League,” he said. “We’ve been in the mix all season, and we aim to finish there.”
