๐ต Chelsea Boss Maresca Hints at Buonanotte as Palmer Replacement
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has suggested that Facundo Buonanotte could step into Cole Palmerโs role in the starting XI โ but stressed that the decision will depend on tactics, the opponent, and the flow of the game.
โFacundo can play in that position,โ Maresca said ahead of Chelseaโs Premier League clash with Brighton. โBut it depends on the game, the other team, and how they defend. It depends.โ
Palmerโs Influence
Palmer has become one of Chelseaโs most influential players since his arrival from Manchester City. The 22-year-old was the Bluesโ top scorer last season with 16 league goals and nine assists, and has been central to Marescaโs system with his creativity, movement, and ability to decide tight matches.
His absence leaves a major hole โ raising the question of who can provide that same spark.
Why Buonanotte?
Buonanotte, on loan from Brighton, has mostly featured from the bench this season but impressed with his technical ability and decision-making.
At just 19, the Argentine offers a different profile to Palmer: less direct, but strong at keeping possession and threading passes. Maresca hinted his qualities may be particularly useful against pressing teams, where composure is vital.
Against low-block opponents, Chelsea may turn to more unpredictable attacking options.
Tactical Flexibility
Since taking charge, Maresca has stressed adaptability. He encourages his players to rotate roles, adjust mid-match, and provide multiple attacking outlets.
โWe canโt just replace one player with another without thinking about the bigger picture,โ he explained. โEvery game requires something different.โ
That could see alternatives like Christopher Nkunku dropping deeper, or academy players being handed chances.
The Bigger Picture
Chelsea fans will watch closely to see how Maresca handles life without Palmer. For Buonanotte, this could be a career-defining opportunity to establish himself as a serious contender for regular starts.
Whatโs clear: Maresca is determined not to rush his decisions โ every adjustment will be made with the opposition and tactical balance in mind.
