Cole Palmer: What to expect in 2025/26?

When Cole Palmer was signed from Manchester City, he didn’t come with much promise. Many thought that if a player couldn’t fit under Pep Guardiola’s methods, they wouldn’t survive. However, he has put aside all the doubters and become an essential player for Chelsea. With his sensational performances in the past couple of seasons, all eyes are on the Englishman in the 2025/26 season. Considering the 2026 World Cup is one year away, next season’s performance could have a huge impact on his selection in the penultimate international tournament next year.

A Stellar Breakthrough Season

When Palmer arrived at Chelsea in the summer of 2023 from Manchester City, few predicted how rapidly he would become the team’s heartbeat. Eyebrows were raised on why Chelsea are paying up to £50 million for a Pep Guardiola bench warmer, but he’s destroyed the criticism. Under Mauricio Pochettino, Palmer didn’t just settle into life at Stamford Bridge. He took it by storm.

He delivered one of the most explosive breakout seasons in recent Premier League history, operating as a right winger for Chelsea. Palmer finished 2023/24 with 22 league goals and 11 assists, which placed him among the league’s best playmakers alongside Martin Odegaard and Kevin De Bruyne. His technique, composure in the box, and intelligent movement quickly separated him from the rest of Chelsea’s young core.

Pochettino’s system allowed him to play with freedom and confidence. The 23-year-old delivered, carrying the team through difficult stretches and becoming the primary source of creativity and goals. What stood out wasn’t just the output, but the maturity. Whether from the penalty spot, in transition, or when threading a pass between tight lines, Palmer made the right decisions at the right time. He provided clarity about the squad still finding its identity.

A Tactical Shift Under Maresca

The 24/25 season brought significant changes, most notably the surprise sacking of Mauricio Pochettino and the appointment of former Leicester manager Enzo Maresca. The tactical approach shifted from Poch’s fast-flowing transitional football to a more structured possession style, reminiscent of Pep Guardiola’s. Palmer was repositioned as an attacking midfielder, no longer operating as a right winger. 

Early in the 2024/25 campaign, Palmer looked sharp. He continued delivering in front of the goal, and his tight-space intelligence allowed him to control games differently. It was as if he had started where he left off, just like last season. However, while the statistics remained solid, with double-digit numbers in both goals and assists, the overall impact wasn’t as electrifying as it had been in the previous season.

In truth, the tactical demands placed upon him were heavier. Maresca’s system required greater defensive discipline, more orchestrating than finishing, and patience in buildup rather than quick breaks. Palmer went through a spell where his influence was not that much, and Chelsea’s attack occasionally felt too reliant on him to make things happen. Often nullified and man-marked by not one but two players, it was both frustrating for the player, the fans, and the managers.  Still, the talent never disappeared, and in the moments that mattered, Palmer showed up.

The best example came in the UEFA Conference League final against Real Betis, where he delivered two assists in a commanding 4-1 victory. His movement, weight of pass, and tempo control were exceptional, and he was named man of the match. It was a timely reminder of his quality, bringing the season to a high note.

Expectations for 2025/26: Back to His Best?

Looking ahead to the new season, there is a growing belief that Palmer could return to his 2023/24 heights or surpass them. Chelsea finally appears to be balanced. After two and a half seasons of sheer inconsistency, the squad has shape, purpose, and direction. Maresca has significantly improved the Chelsea football club, and his tactical vision for taking the club forward is proving effective. 

The impending arrival of Liam Delap from Ipswich Town could prove crucial. Delap is a young physical, mobile striker who can stretch defenses, creating the kind of space that Palmer thrives in. With a true center forward ahead of him, Palmer is likely to find more freedom in central areas. The Rodrygo-to-Chelsea rumors also provide excitement among fans on how deadly the duo could link up together., This would also prevent opponents from doubling up on Palmer.

More importantly, Chelsea’s return to the UEFA Champions League provides a new motivation for the star. Palmer has already shown what he can do in a European competition, but the Champions League is dreamers’ gravy. Being among Europe’s finest will put him in the spotlight and intensity that could accelerate his evolution from a domestic star to a global standout.

Maresca’s system is also expected to evolve slightly, with more tactical flexibility. Palmer may be granted more liberty in the final third rather than being used as the metronome in midfield buildup. His role as a creative fulcrum will remain, but with less burden to drop deep and more encouragement to operate near the goal.

Final Thoughts

Palmer enters the 2025/26 season with two seasons of Premier League football under his belt, both very different in tone. The first, full of joy and overachievement. The second one is more mature and result-driven. Now, the expectation is consistency. It is not just highlight-reel moments, but control, leadership, and execution, as well as taking Chelsea to new heights.

They are also considered contenders for both the Premier League title and the Champions League.If the squad gels and injuries are mild, Palmer has the tools, tactical clarity, and mental strength to lead Chelsea back into the top tier of European football. This season won’t be about proving talent; it will be about delivering legacy performances.