Chelsea star ‘not physically prepared’ to replace Cole Palmer, suggests Enzo Maresca

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has expressed that 18-year-old summer signing Estevao Willian is not yet physically prepared to assume the central attacking role vacated by Cole Palmer. While Estevao has shown promise, including becoming the youngest player to register a Premier League assist for Chelsea, Maresca emphasized the need for physical readiness to play in the middle. Estevao’s development is being managed carefully, with Maresca noting similarities between his progression and that of Palmer’s early career. As Chelsea faces a selection crisis with multiple injuries, including Palmer’s groin issue, the club is exploring tactical adjustments to maintain attacking strength.