Overview

• Cole Palmer has been ruled out of Chelsea’s next three matches with a groin flare‑up, removing their key creator for Benfica’s visit.
• Enzo Maresca said there is no reason to panic, highlighting that four of Chelsea’s recent five defeats came after red cards and acknowledging he could have managed those situations better.
• Moisés Caicedo, João Pedro and Andrey Santos will be assessed for minor issues today to determine availability for Tuesday’s Champions League tie.
• José Mourinho, newly in charge at Benfica after leaving Fenerbahçe, praised Palmer as “phenomenal” and said he was happy the forward is unavailable, with his team unbeaten in three under him.
• Multiple outlets report the board’s stance is to support Maresca and review at season’s end, with the post‑Brighton dressing‑room visit described as routine.