Chelsea’s standout performer, Cole Palmer, sheds light on his departure from Manchester City last summer following the Blues’ 3-2 victory over Newcastle on Monday.
Palmer’s stellar performance saw him score one goal and provide an assist, cementing his status as the standout player for Chelsea once again on Monday night.
The English forward’s efforts included a goal from a deflected effort and a stunning strike to put Chelsea ahead 2-1 in the second half.
Although substitute Mykhailo Mudryk sealed the win with a late solo effort, Palmer earned the Player of the Match accolade. Reflecting on his decision to join Chelsea, Palmer expressed optimism about the club’s project.
Cole Palmer (via Premier League/Twitter)
In an interview with Sky Sports after the match, the 21-year-old stated: “I thought I was ready to play football week in, week out and that’s the reason [I joined Chelsea]. I just wanted to showcase my ability and thankfully it has paid off.
It was a very difficult decision to leave City, I was there since six years old. I was ready to play football, had a chat with my family, had a chat with the club and moved to Chelsea.”
Regarding Chelsea’s long-term project, Palmer issued a warning to skeptics: “I think there’s so much talent at Chelsea, the fans don’t see it, you guys [media] don’t see it.
It’s only gonna get better I’m sure, if not next season the season after it’s a project, everyone’s young. You will see it sooner or later.”
Palmer’s goal and assist against Newcastle bring his tally to 19 goal contributions in the Premier League and 26 across all competitions this season.
Manchester City Team (Via Manchester City/Twitter)
His signing, alongside potentially that of Malo Gusto, stands out as a significant success from the Todd Boehly-Clearlake Capital era, with Palmer consistently proving himself as a game-changer for Chelsea.
His performances have also raised the possibility of an England call-up for Euro 2024. This prospect received a considerable boost on Monday as Three Lions manager Gareth Southgate witnessed Palmer’s masterclass against Newcastle at Stamford Bridge.
The young English talent is set to play a pivotal role in Mauricio Pochettino’s attacking lineup when Chelsea faces Leicester in the FA Cup quarter-finals on Sunday.
Chelsea, along with Wolves, were the only Premier League teams to avoid facing a top-flight opponent in the last eight, offering them a genuine chance of returning to Wembley for the second time in two months should they progress to the semi-finals.
