How Cole Palmer Became Chelsea’s Main Man in His First Season

Cole Palmer is a rising star in the Premier League. The 21-year-old midfielder joined Chelsea from Manchester City in September 2023 and has since become a key player for the Blues. He has scored or assisted 13 goals in 13 league starts, helping Chelsea climb to the top of the table.

But what makes Palmer so special? How did he adapt so quickly to his new club and handle the pressure of being the main man? In this post, we’ll explore Palmer’s journey from Manchester to London, his remarkable performances on the pitch, and his humble attitude off it.

From Manchester City to Chelsea

Palmer was born in Manchester and joined Manchester City’s academy at the age of eight. He progressed through the ranks and made his first-team debut in September 2020, aged 18. He scored his first goal for City in September 2021, in a 6-1 win over Wycombe Wanderers in the EFL Cup.

Palmer was highly rated by City manager Pep Guardiola, who praised his talent and versatility. He could play as an attacking midfielder, a winger, or a false nine. He was also a regular for England’s youth teams, winning the UEFA European Under-21 Championship in 2023.

However, Palmer faced stiff competition for a place in City’s star-studded squad. He made only 19 league appearances for City in three seasons, mostly as a substitute. He wanted more game time and a bigger role in the team. That’s why he decided to join Chelsea on transfer deadline day in September 2023, for an initial fee of £40 million, potentially rising by £2.5 million in add-ons.

A Sensational Start at Stamford Bridge

Palmer made his Chelsea debut the day after his signing, coming on as a substitute in a 1-0 home defeat to Nottingham Forest. His first start came in his fourth appearance, a Carabao Cup win over Brighton, where he scored his first Chelsea goal from a penalty.

Since then, Palmer has been a regular starter for Chelsea, playing mostly as an attacking midfielder behind the striker. He has formed a lethal partnership with Nicolas Jackson, Chelsea’s top scorer, and has also linked up well with Ben Chilwell, Chelsea’s captain and left-back.

Palmer has shown his quality and consistency in front of goal, scoring or assisting in 10 of his 13 league starts. He has also scored in the premier league, the FA Cup, and the EFL Cup, making him Chelsea’s second-highest scorer in all competitions, behind Jackson.

Palmer has also demonstrated his composure and confidence under pressure. He has scored 5 penalties for Chelsea, including a stoppage-time equaliser against his former club Man City, the day before he received his first call-up into the England senior squad. He has also scored crucial goals in tight games, such as the winner against Fulham in January 2024.

A Humble and Hardworking Attitude

Despite his impressive stats and performances, Palmer has remained humble and hardworking. He has not let the fame and praise get to his head. He has always credited his teammates and manager Mauricio Pochettino for his success. He has also acknowledged his areas of improvement, such as his defensive work and his decision-making.

Palmer has also shown his love and passion for the game. He has said that he enjoys playing football and that he doesn’t feel the pressure of being the main man. He has said that it’s his job to score and assist goals, and that he always tries to do his best for the team.

In an interview after the Fulham game, Palmer said: “It’s my job. I’m here to help the team win games and trophies. I don’t think about the pressure, I just focus on the next game and the next challenge. I’m happy to be here and to play with these amazing players. We have a great team spirit and a great manager. We want to keep working hard and keep improving every day.”