Cole Palmer is undeniably one of the Premier League’s most technically gifted footballers, but his form at Chelsea has nosedived this season. When the Blues splashed €47 million to bring the Englishman to Stamford Bridge, eyebrows were raised, but he quickly silenced critics with a sensational debut campaign.
Palmer shot to stardom with 40 goal contributions across all competitions, earning him the Premier League Young Player of the Season award and the PFA Fans’ Player of the Year. His dream run included a goal in the Euro 2024 final, cementing his status as a global star with his trademark celebration. However, over the past two seasons, Palmer has failed to replicate those heights as Chelsea have struggled, casting doubt over his future at the club.
It’s a simple fact that Palmer’s output has steadily declined across his three seasons at Chelsea, but his current drought has raised alarm. The 24-year-old has not registered a goal or assist in his last nine appearances, and he looked visibly disconnected during the weekend defeat to Nottingham Forest, where he also missed a penalty. Mitigating factors include the turmoil at Chelsea this season and persistent injury issues—some insiders suggest Palmer is still carrying a knock. Yet, as the graphic below clearly shows, this is his least productive season since arriving at Stamford Bridge.
This season, Palmer has scored ten goals and provided just three assists in 30 appearances, averaging 0.56 goal contributions per 90 minutes. That marks a slight drop from last season’s 18 goals and 14 assists in 52 games (0.68 g/a per 90). However, compared to his breakthrough debut campaign—where he averaged a goal involvement per game with 25 goals and 15 assists in 45 matches—his productivity has nearly halved.
Chelsea’s stance on Palmer is unequivocal: he is not for sale. Despite constant speculation linking him with Manchester United—where Palmer is a boyhood fan—the Blues remain firm. Before facing United last month, Palmer distanced himself from the rumors and reaffirmed his commitment, but stressed the importance of Champions League qualification. “I believe in what the club is doing,” he said. “Hopefully, I and we [Chelsea] can win a lot. If we’re not in the Champions League, a lot changes. Everything changes, really.” Many interpreted that as a hint he might leave if Chelsea fail to qualify. With the Blues unlikely to achieve that goal, Palmer’s future is back in the spotlight. However, it’s highly improbable any club will meet his €110 million Transfermarkt valuation. United have long-term interest but are prioritizing two central midfielders this summer, meaning Palmer will likely remain at Chelsea.
