“There’s been a lot of talk”

Liam Rosenior opened up about Cole Palmer after Chelsea’s win over Napoli in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday. He said that the Englishman was very happy in the changing room after helping his side secure a crucial win.

The Blues needed a win against Napoli to directly qualify for the Round of 16 in the Champions League this season. However, they found themselves 2-1 down at halftime. Rosenior then brought on Cole Palmer for Pedro Neto, and the Englishman helped them win 3-2.

After the game, Rosenior spoke about speculation around Palmer’s future and his injuries and said (h/t The Chelsea Chronicle):

“There’s no way Cole could have started and played 60/70 minutes. I thought later in the game we would be stronger. Cole was magnificent. We need to look after him. He’s a world-class player. There’s been a lot of talk – he was a very, very happy man in the changing room.”

Palmer provided two assists for Chelsea against Napoli, completed 20/25 passes, attempted one shot, and made three key passes (via SofaScore). However, his future has been under speculation recently after some reports suggested he is looking to return to Manchester.

Liam Rosenior dismissed claims of a potential Chelsea exit for Cole Palmer

Ahead of the clash against Napoli, Liam Rosenior had asserted that Cole Palmer will not be leaving Chelsea. He dismissed rumors about his future and said the midfielder is happy at Stamford Bridge. The English head coach said:

“There’s no reason for assurance. It’s so unrealistic. It’s come from nowhere. There’s nothing in it. There’s no reason to have the conversation. That’s where I’m at. Cole is very happy. I’ve had numerous conversations with him. Our thoughts are on how we can make this team better, how he can improve and how I can help him. He loves being here, and he wants to be a Chelsea player. You can’t stop speculation, but some speculation is so far from the truth. There’s no point in having a discussion about it.

“It’s simple. Cole is an incredible player. I’m not surprised at the timing. A new manager comes in and all of a sudden there are people unsettled. It’s not true. Cole’s here, he’s very happy and I can’t wait to see him back on the pitch.”

The Blues signed Palmer from Manchester City in 2023. He has contributed 48 goals and 31 assists in 111 games, helping them win the UEFA Europa Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup.