)
The former Manchester City star has been a star for Chelsea since his summer move, validating his choice to move from Manchester to London
In a revealing interview with BBC Sport, Chelsea's burgeoning talent Cole Palmer has opened up about his decision to leave Manchester City, a club he had been with since the under-8 level, to embark on a new chapter with Chelsea under the guidance of Mauricio Pochettino.
Despite Manchester City's success on the field, Palmer's move was influenced by his desire for more playing time and the personal touch Pochettino brings to his coaching.
Pochettino's Personal Approach
Palmer praised Chelsea's manager, Mauricio Pochettino, highlighting his ability to connect with players on a personal level. "He speaks to you about anything, like family issues," Palmer told Football Focus, emphasising how Pochettino's understanding of players' off-pitch lives positively impacts their on-field performance.
This holistic approach to player management has resonated with Palmer, who values the freedom and personal expression Pochettino encourages in his playing style.
Palmer’s Reason For Leaving Manchester City
At Manchester City, despite being part of a squad that clinched three consecutive Premier League titles and European glory, Palmer found starting opportunities limited. Out of 25 appearances last season, only seven were starts. The young forward felt ready for regular first-team football, something he believed he could achieve at Chelsea. "I felt I was ready to play and I thought I might as well just go for it," Palmer stated, reflecting on his decision to join the Blues.
Since joining Chelsea, Palmer has flourished, becoming the team's top scorer with 12 goals in 31 appearances this season. His role in the Carabao Cup final and consistent performances in the Premier League showcase his growing importance to the team. His development was further acknowledged when he was named the Men's Young Player of the Year at the 2024 London Football Awards.
Acknowledging Guardiola's Impact
While embracing his new chapter at Chelsea, Palmer also paid tribute to the coaching he received at Manchester City under Pep Guardiola. Acknowledging the invaluable lessons learned at City, Palmer expressed gratitude for the experience gained from working with some of the world's best players and a top-tier manager.
Cole Palmer's move to Chelsea, driven by a quest for more significant playing opportunities and a personal connection with manager Mauricio Pochettino, exemplifies a young player's desire to grow and express himself on the football pitch. As he continues to make his mark at Chelsea, Palmer's journey reflects the evolving path of modern footballers who seek not just success but also a nurturing environment that fosters both personal and professional development.
Related content
)
12:30 - 01.03.2024
Ranking top 10 best Premier League players of all time 2024
Who ranks as the greatest player in Premier League history, and who makes the top 10?
)
10:38 - 01.03.2024
Eagles striker Osimhen leaves Chelsea purring after sensational hat-trick audition
Nigeria's Victor Osimhen has hit form for SSC Napoli following his return from AFCON 2023 with the Super Eagles.
)
22:07 - 29.02.2024
Chelsea Icon Eden Hazard Reveals How Super Eagles Legends Mikel and Moses Taught Him English
The Belgian football legend has opened up about getting much needed help from his Nigerian brothers at Chelsea
)
23:58 - 29.02.2024
Disaster Strikes as Fan Falls from Top of Chelsea's Stamford Bridge Stadium
The Leeds United fan nearly met with an untimely end while celebrating a goal in a recent FA Cup fixture
)
13:22 - 29.02.2024
‘With which money?’ - Fans of ‘broke’ Barcelona left in DISBELIEF amid Erling Haaland ‘sensational’ transfer links
A number of Barca fans have laughed off reports of a potential transfer for Man City’s Norwegian goal machine.
)
06:16 - 29.02.2024
Gallagher matches Terry’s 22-year FA Cup record against Leeds United
The Chelsea midfielder scored a late winning goal in Wednesday's FA Cup game with Leeds United to take Mauricio Pochettino's men into the FA Cup quarter-finals.
)
22:58 - 28.02.2024
Gallagher's late strike sends Chelsea through to the next round
Chelsea secured a hard-fought victory over Leeds in the fifth round of the FA Cup and sealed a place in the next round.
)
16:49 - 28.02.2024
'Who said that?' - Pochettino reacts to European spot ultimatum
In the wake of a challenging period for Chelsea, Mauricio Pochettino stands firm in his belief in the backing he receives from the club's hierarchy, despite the swirling rumours regarding his tenure.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)