Chelsea Coach Enzo Maresca Reveals Who Could Replace Cole Palmer in Starting XI

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has suggested that Facundo Buonanotte could step into Cole Palmer’s role in the starting XI, but stressed that the decision will be shaped by tactics, the opposition, and the flow of the game.

Speaking ahead of Chelsea vs Brighton Premier League fixture, Maresca highlighted the importance of balance in his squad selection and hinted at his trust in the 19-year-old Argentine.

“Facundo Buonanotte can play in that position,” Maresca said. “But it depends a little bit on the game, the other team, and how they defend. It depends.”

Palmer’s Growing Influence

Cole Palmer has quickly become one of Chelsea’s most important players since arriving from Manchester City. The 22-year-old has not only provided goals and assists but has also been the creative link in Maresca’s system. Last season, Palmer scored 16 league goals and created 9 assists, finishing as Chelsea’s top scorer and one of the most effective attacking midfielders in the Premier League.

Losing a player of Palmer’s influence naturally raises questions about how Chelsea will adapt. His ability to drift into pockets of space, dictate tempo, and produce decisive moments has often been the difference in tight games.

Why Buonanotte?

Facundo Buonanotte, signed on loan from Brighton, has been regarded as a player with strong technical ability and sharp decision-making. Still only 19, but Maresca’s comments suggest the Argentine may be given opportunities in more high-pressure situations.

Buonanotte has mostly been used from the bench this season, yet he has shown flashes of creativity, particularly with his ability to operate between midfield and attack. His style is different from Palmer’s—less direct, but more focused on keeping possession and threading passes.

For Maresca, the decision may come down to the opposition. Against teams that defend deep, a more unpredictable and risk-taking player may be needed. Against teams that press high, Buonanotte’s composure and technical security could be an advantage.

A Manager Who Demands Flexibility

Maresca has repeatedly stressed the need for tactical adaptability at Chelsea. Since his arrival, he has encouraged players to rotate positions, switch roles mid-match, and offer multiple attacking outlets.

His remarks about Palmer’s replacement reinforce this philosophy: no single player is guaranteed a direct swap. Instead, the choice will vary depending on the demands of each match.

“We can’t just replace one player with another without thinking about the bigger picture,” Maresca explained in a recent press conference. “Every game requires something different. That’s what I want my players to understand.”

Chelsea supporters will be eager to see how Maresca manages this period without Palmer. For Buonanotte, the opportunity could be career-defining. A strong performance in Palmer’s absence might accelerate his role at the club and establish him as a serious contender for more regular starts.

At the same time, Maresca may also look at alternatives—shifting Christopher Nkunku into a deeper role, giving minutes to academy graduates, or even tweaking the formation to create new attacking angles.

For now, the manager appears calm and confident, placing trust in the squad at his disposal. His willingness to consider Buonanotte shows faith in Chelsea’s younger players, but also highlights his determination not to rush into tactical decisions.

Cole Palmer’s absence is a significant challenge, but Enzo Maresca sees it as an opportunity to test the flexibility of his squad. Facundo Buonanotte may not yet be a household name, but under Maresca’s guidance, he could play a key role in Chelsea’s next chapter.

What remains clear is that Chelsea’s manager will not make changes for the sake of it—each adjustment will be made with an eye on the opposition and the bigger tactical picture.