Cole Palmer's form has declined since his stunning first season with Chelsea in 2023, with the 24-year-old scoring 22 league goals in 33 games. On 1 June 2026, former Chelsea star Marcel Desailly expressed his doubts over Palmer's mindset for top-level football.
What happened?
Desailly questioned whether Palmer is enough of a 'killer' to succeed at the highest level, citing his lack of dominance on the pitch. The Frenchman believes Palmer is too happy to accept his fate and play out of position.
Why it matters for Cole Palmer
Palmer's decline in form has seen him miss out on the England squad for the summer's World Cup. Desailly feels that Palmer needs to take control of his destiny and demand to play in his preferred position as a number 10.
What comes next?
With the possible departure of Enzo Fernandez, Palmer may be given the opportunity to play in his preferred position. The 24-year-old will be hoping that new manager Xabi Alonso has full faith in him when he takes charge at Stamford Bridge on 1 July.
Palmer has been hampered by a groin problem, making just 26 Premier League appearances last season. His impact has declined significantly, with 10 goals in the season just gone. Desailly believes that Palmer needs to make it clear to his manager that he wants to play as a number 10 and adapt the system to suit him.
The World Cup winner feels that Palmer is satisfied with his current situation and lacks the desire to be the best. Desailly said: 'Each top player has to be a killer inside himself. He wants to win trophies, he wants to be the best, and he's ready to work hard to become the best.'
Palmer will be looking to regain his form and prove Desailly wrong under new manager Alonso. The Spaniard's arrival has generated excitement among the players, with Palmer telling Sky Sports: 'Everyone's excited. He's a top manager, so we can't wait to get started.'
The possible departure of Fernandez could see Palmer unleashed in the number 10 position, with Real Madrid and Manchester City interested in the Argentine. However, the enormous asking price of £120m may be a stumbling block.
Desailly's comments have sparked debate over Palmer's ability to succeed at the highest level. The 24-year-old will be looking to prove his doubters wrong and regain his form under new manager Alonso. On 1 July, Palmer will have the opportunity to start anew and show the world what he is capable of.
The question on everyone's mind is whether Palmer has the mentality to succeed at the top level. Only time will tell if the 24-year-old can silence his critics and prove himself as a top player. For now, the focus is on the upcoming season and the opportunity for Palmer to regain his form and prove his worth.
Palmer's future at Chelsea is uncertain, but one thing is clear: he needs to take control of his destiny and demand to play in his preferred position. The 24-year-old has the talent, but does he have the mentality to succeed at the highest level? The answer to that question will be revealed in the upcoming season.