Chelsea welcomes FC Barcelona to Stamford Bridge on Tuesday 25 November for the fifth matchday of the UEFA Champions League 2025-26 League Phase. The Londoners, coached by Enzo Maresca, arrive at the match with the need to recover after the draw against Qarabag in their visit to Azerbaijan, a result that complicated their aspirations in the tournament.
The match against Hansi Flick’s team will be key for both clubs, who share points in the standings. With seven points each, the English and Spanish need to win to avoid the play-offs and move closer to a direct place in the Playoffs.
Why did Cole Palmer get off?
Although Chelsea had hoped to have Cole Palmer back for this part of the season, the striker will not be available against Barcelona. The 23-year-old had progressed favorably from a groin strain, but a domestic setback thwarted his return.
Speaking ahead of the final Premier League game, Enzo Maresca explained what happened: the manager said that Palmer suffered a broken toe after accidentally stubbing his toe in his own home, a mishap that delayed his return to the squad.
According to the coach, the setback is not serious, but it will prevent the attacker from returning to the field this week or next. This leaves Palmer out of not only the clash against Barcelona, but also the league game against Arsenal.
A direct duel in the Champions League standings
Chelsea and Barcelona face this match with the same need. Both teams have seven points in the Group and are tied in the table, so a positive result can make the difference in the final stretch of the phase.
The clash in London thus acquires a decisive value: whoever wins will be closer to securing direct qualification for the Playoffs and will avoid the playoff round to be faced by the teams below them.
