Who does Chelsea star Cole Palmer support? Man United truth after Man City transfer
Chelsea's standout player, Cole Palmer, is set to return to his hometown this weekend as Enzo Maresca's side take on Manchester United in the Premier League.
The attacking midfielder has been nothing short of sensational for Chelsea since his move from Manchester City in September 2023. Since landing at Stamford Bridge, Palmer has made an immediate impact, boasting an impressive tally of 32 goals and 20 assists in just 56 appearances for the club.
After a stellar debut season in London, Palmer has continued his fine form into this campaign, already netting seven goals and providing five assists across all competitions. Such performances have left many questioning why City boss Pep Guardiola sanctioned the 22-year-old's departure.
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While Guardiola has a history of allowing players who wish to leave to do so, it seems like a rare oversight from the esteemed City manager. There were also doubts over why Palmer felt a fresh challenge was necessary at this point in his career.
Many believed he was on the cusp of becoming a first-team regular at City, but Palmer has previously expressed frustration over waiting for that opportunity. Another theory circulating online suggests that the midfielder may have wanted to leave City due to his actual allegiances lying with the red half of Manchester.
Last season, after netting a decisive goal against United in the Premier League, Palmer was open about his childhood support for the Reds, saying: "Yeah, when I was growing up I was a United fan."
He did make it clear that this doesn't give him extra motivation during games, stating: "I just think to try and do the same thing each time," and added: "But I’ve scored away and a few here today, so I’m buzzing."
He concluded: "I just try and take each game as it comes and show the Chelsea fans and everyone what I came here to do and that is just play football." Thus, while Palmer holds a childhood fondness for United, expect no leniency towards Ruud van Nistelrooy's squad at Old Trafford.