Why Cole Palmer is the Premier League’s best player this season

When asked about the goal, Palmer simply stated, “I thought it was a bit too far out, but clearly it wasn’t.”

The response is indicative of the calm, unbothered demeanor that earned him the nickname “Cold Palmer.” Nothing seems to shake the confidence of the 22-year-old phenom.

Given his start to his career at Chelsea, it’s understandable why. His 43 goal involvements are the most in the Premier League since the 2023-24 season, two more than prolific Manchester City striker Erling Haaland. Only Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane has more in all major European leagues in the past two seasons.

Palmer, last season’s Premier League Young Player of the Season, sets himself apart from the rest of the league with his playmaking ability. He’s the only Premier League player with over double-digit goals and assists in 2024, highlighted by his hat trick of assists against Wolves in August.

While the Englishman put the league on notice last season under former head coach Mauricio Pochettino, Palmer is an even better player under new management. Enzo Maresca, who was hired this summer, moved Palmer from right winger to attacking midfielder. The more central position allows him to threaten both sides of the field as a creator and scorer.

Maresca gives Palmer well-deserved freedom in this new role, trusting him as the engine of the group. While much has been made about Man City manager Pep Guardiola letting the young talent leave for only $53 million, he likely would not be the player he is without leaving the league champions. Unlike City, Chelsea was desperate for a superstar to elevate its squad, and Palmer answered the call.

In 13 months with the club, he already has tied the most hat tricks ever by a Chelsea player. If the squad tightens up its defense, Palmer is the perfect player to help lead the club back to its rightful place in the top four.