Cole Palmer grew up in Wythenshawe, Manchester, and came through Manchester City’s academy. He won the 2023 Champions League with City and scored in the UEFA Super Cup, but with limited opportunities in a star-studded team, he joined Chelsea for around £40 million in September 2023.
His impact was immediate. In his first season at Chelsea he scored 22 Premier League goals and was named the PFA Young Player of the Year. He became Chelsea’s main creator and penalty-taker, known for his calm finishing and cold celebration.
Palmer won the Conference League in 2025 and was named best player of the Club World Cup final after scoring twice and setting up a third against Paris Saint-Germain. He has played for England at the 2024 European Championship, scoring in the final against Spain.
Playing style
Palmer is a left-footed attacking midfielder with remarkable composure. He can play on the right wing, cutting inside, or as a No. 10. He is an excellent passer, creative dribbler and clinical finisher, and he is one of the best penalty-takers in the Premier League. His calmness under pressure is his defining trait: he rarely looks rushed and often takes responsibility in big moments. His move from Manchester City to Chelsea transformed his career, making him one of the most important players in English football.
International career
Palmer made his England debut in 2023 and played at Euro 2024, where he scored England’s equaliser in the final against Spain after coming off the bench. He has since become a regular in the squad.
Career in numbers
Since his first senior season in 2020/21, Palmer has made 179 club appearances and scored 64 goals in all competitions for 2 clubs. The 2023/24 season, with 27 goals from 48 matches for Manchester City and Chelsea, remains his highest tally. His busiest campaign was 2024/25, with 52 appearances. So far in 2026/27 he has 4 goals in 7 appearances for Chelsea. The full season-by-season record is in the Stats section of this profile.
