20 Cole Palmer

Born in Wythenshawe, Manchester, on May 6, 2002, Cole Palmer honed his skills at NJ Wythenshawe before joining Manchester City’s academy in 2010. Despite concerns over his physique, he progressed through the ranks and captained the U18s.

• September 2020: Made Man City first-team debut in an EFL Cup win over Burnley.
• September 2021: Scored first senior goal in a 6–1 win vs. Wycombe Wanderers.
• October 2021: Scored first Champions League goal against Club Brugge.
• January 2022: Netted on his FA Cup debut vs. Swindon Town.

Breakthrough & Treble-Winning Season (2022–23)

Palmer played a supporting role in City’s historic treble-winning season, featuring in 14 Premier League matches.

• August 2023: Scored in the FA Community Shield & UEFA Super Cup.
• August 2023: Won the UEFA Super Cup in his final City appearance.

Move to Chelsea & Breakout Season (2023–24)

Chelsea secured Palmer for £40 million on September 1, 2023, on a seven-year deal. He quickly became their main attacking force.

• October 2023: Scored first Chelsea goal in a 4–1 win vs. Burnley.
• November 2023: Scored a stoppage-time penalty vs. Man City in a 4–4 thriller.
• December 2023: Scored twice & assisted vs. Luton Town.
• April 2024: Netted four goals vs. Everton, becoming Chelsea’s youngest four-goal scorer.
• May 2024: Became only the third player U21 to contribute 30+ goals in a Premier League season.

Palmer finished the season with 27 goals & 15 assists, winning:
🏆 Premier League Young Player of the Season
🏆 PFA Fans’ Player of the Year
🏆 Chelsea Player of the Season

Second Season at Chelsea (2024–25)

Palmer extended his Chelsea contract for nine years, cementing his future at Stamford Bridge.

• August 2024: Won PFA Young Player of the Year.
• September 2024: Scored four first-half goals vs. Brighton—a Premier League first.
• December 2024: Set the record for most Chelsea goal contributions in a calendar year.

England Career & Euro 2024 Heroics

Palmer starred for England’s U21s, winning the 2023 UEFA U21 Euros before making his senior debut in November 2023.

• June 2024: Scored first England goal in a friendly vs. Bosnia.
• July 2024: Assisted Watkins’ winner in the Euro semi-final vs. the Netherlands.
• July 2024: Scored in the Euro 2024 final vs. Spain.

In October 2024, Palmer was named England Men’s Player of the Year.

Playing Style & Strengths

Palmer is a versatile attacker, thriving as a winger or playmaker. Known for:
✅ Dribbling & composure under pressure
✅ Vision & playmaking ability
✅ Deadly finishing, including penalties

Can Palmer continue his rise and become Chelsea’s next superstar?