Chelsea sensation Cole Palmer has revealed he nearly he had to be persuaded before agreeing to move to Stamford Bridge where he has go on to become one of the Blues’ most important player.
The 22-year-old midfielder swapped Manchester for west London in the summer of 2023. Palmer’s debut season at Chelsea was highly successful, with the England international emerging as not only one of the club’s brightest prospects but also one of the Premier League’s most exciting players.
So far this season, Palmer has scored seven goals in 13 appearances, including four goals in the first half of Chelsea’s victory over Brighton & Hove Albion in September. His remarkable 27 goals from the previous season remain a standout achievement.
However, Palmer has now admitted that despite wanting to leave his childhood club, knowing that he’d struggle to earn game time in Pep Guardiola’s team, he “wasn’t going to” accept a move to the capital.
“I wasn’t even gonna go [to] Chelsea,” he revealed to GQ. “I got persuaded.”
“I just knew I wasn’t going to play as much as I wanted to. Even when I was going to England [camps] with younger age groups, you had players there who were playing in the league every week. And you’re looking around thinking, I can play in the league. When you’re not playing, it’s annoying.
“I just wanted to go on loan. I remember training on a Wednesday at City in the afternoon, and the news was ‘they’re trying to agree a fee’. Every time the ball went out I’d ask the kit man or the doctor if they’ve agreed the fee yet.
“So I didn’t really get a chance to see many people and say I’m going. I just had to get my stuff. I messaged the group chat, said ‘Thanks and everything. I’m gone.’ That was it.”
Palmer became an instant hit at Stamford Bridge, establishing himself as a vital member of the Blues squad. This season, the young Englishman has featured in every one of Chelsea’s games so far, registering 12 goal contributions in 11 games.
Olaoluwa is a dedicated sports writer and passionate football enthusiast with two years of experience. Known for his keen analysis and commitment to the game, his work reflects a deep love for football, blending strategic insight with the emotional moments that make it a global passion. He is focused on honing his skills and consistently aims to inspire and engage readers through every article he writes.
