November 23rd 2024.
Growing up, Cole Palmer was a dedicated fan of the Red Devils. Despite coming through Manchester City's academy, his idol was actually a Manchester United and England legend. As a child, Palmer would try to emulate this legend's skills, mesmerized by his talent and success.
After the recent international break, Palmer is eager to continue his impressive run of form as Chelsea faces off against Leicester City in the Saturday Premier League match. The attacking midfielder's rise to success has been nothing short of meteoric since joining Chelsea from Manchester City last year. From a rarely-seen prospect, Palmer has become one of the top players in the Premier League.
In his first season with Chelsea, the 22-year-old scored an impressive 25 goals and provided 15 assists. This season, he has already scored seven goals and made five assists in just 13 games. While Palmer may not be a striker, his keen eye for the goal is unparalleled, a skill he attributes to learning from one of the best goal-scorers in Premier League history.
Growing up as a Manchester United fan, Palmer would watch Wayne Rooney score for the Red Devils and then try to replicate his goals in Wythenshawe's Hollyhedge Park. "If he'd scored a goal on the weekend, I would go out and see if I could do it," Palmer shared with The Telegraph. Even now, as a successful player himself, Palmer still takes time to visit the park and reminisce about his childhood days.
Wayne Rooney was not just an inspiration for Palmer, but for many young players in England. The former Manchester United and England captain enjoyed a highly successful career, winning numerous trophies including five Premier League titles and the Champions League. It's no surprise that Palmer looked up to him and tried to learn from his skills.
While Palmer may be adjusting to his new life in Surrey after spending his whole life in Manchester, there is one perk he enjoys about living in the south - the quietness and lack of distractions. "Manchester's better, but I don't mind it. I do like it around here, because it's quiet, there are no distractions," he shared. "Everyone you would go out with on a day-to-day basis is nowhere near you."
Palmer's connection to Manchester United goes beyond just admiring Rooney. Last season, he received a message from David Beckham after scoring a goal. "Beckham messaged me. I scored one day, and I saw him in my DMs," Palmer revealed to GQ Magazine. Although he was a bit too young to fully appreciate Beckham's skills during his time at Manchester United, Palmer still recognizes and admires the football legend.
As he continues to make a name for himself at Chelsea, Palmer is still getting used to his new surroundings and the fast-paced changes in his life. "I do stop and think, 'Wow, it has changed fast.' I'm still getting used to it," he admitted. But with the support of his family and the lessons he learned from his idols, Palmer is ready to take on whatever challenges come his way.
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