Paul Merson says Chelsea have a player who can ‘ruin’ Bayern Munich
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has been told the one player he cannot afford to leave out of the side if the Blues are to get a result at Bayern Munich.
Maresca’s side begin their Champions League campaign at Bayern having qualified after claiming a place in the Premier League top four last season.
Chelsea’s 2-2 draw at Brentford means the Blues remain unbeaten in the Premier League, but are four points off leaders Liverpool.
The Club World Cup champions return to the Champions League for the first time since the 2022-23 campaign.
Paul Merson says Cole Palmer can ‘ruin’ Bayern Munich
Cole Palmer was an injury concern pre-Brentford, but came off the bench against the Bees to net the equalising goal on the hour mark to get the Blues back into the game.
The 23-year-old has established himself as a key player in the number 10 role since his arrival from Manchester City.
Speaking on Sky Sports, [16 September], Paul Merson believes Maresca cannot afford to leave Palmer out of the team at Bayern.
“He will have to play tomorrow, we saw when he played against PSG in the Club World Cup when teams have a go at Chelsea and he will find that space and he can ruin you,” Merson said.
| Cole Palmer | Stats |
| Appearances | 99 |
| Goals | 44 |
| Assists | 29 |
“Most of the time against Chelsea teams play 10 behind the ball this will not happen tomorrow, Bayern Munich will have a go at Chelsea.“
Bayern have won all three of their Bundesliga matches this season, with their home results producing a 6-0 and 5-0 victory.
Palmer key to Chelsea’s Champions League success
Chelsea will have to remain compact defensively to keep out Bayern’s attacking force which includes former Spurs striker Harry Kane.
Bayern are formidable at the Allianz Arena, and this will be a stern test of Chelsea’s Champions League credentials.
When Maresca’s side do have the ball then Palmer will be key in being able to keep possession and create chances.
The in-form Joao Pedro has two goals and three assists this season and could be the major beneficiary if Palmer performs well.