Palmer Explains Decision To Leave Man City For Chelsea, Says Transfer Has ‘Paid Off’

Chelsea forward, Cole Palmer has explained his decision to leave Manchester City last summer after leading the Blues to a 3-2 win over Newcastle on Monday.

Palmer was once again the star player for Chelsea on Monday night, scoring one goal and providing an assist. The English forward’s initial attempt at goal was deflected into goal, but he later scored a spectacular piledriver to double the score in the second half. Mykhailo Mudryk, the substitute, entered the game late and produced a strong solo effort that proved to be the winner, although Palmer’s performance awarded him Player of the Match. He gave an explanation of his choice to sign with the Blues in a post-game speech, expressing optimism for the club’s future plans.

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The 21-year-old told Sky Sports after the full-time whistle: “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.”

On the long-term project at Stamfort Bridge, Palmer issued a warning to any doubters: “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.”

With his goal and assist on Monday, Palmer has now contributed 26 goals this season across all competitions and 19 goals in the Premier League. His signing—along with maybe Malo Gusto’s—remains the most notable transaction of the Todd Boehly-Clearlake Capital period since he has consistently shown himself to be Chelsea’s game-changer. His performances have also given him a chance to be called up for the 2024 Euros for England. Gareth Southgate, the manager of the Three Lions, was at Stamford Bridge on Monday to see his masterclass against Newcastle, which significantly increased those prospects.

Sunday’s FA Cup quarterfinal matchup against Leicester will feature the England youth player prominently in Mauricio Pochettino’s offensive lineup. Chelsea has a genuine potential to make a trip back to Wembley in less than two months if they advance to the semi-finals as they, along with Wolves, were the only Premier League teams to escape a top-tier opponent in the last eight.