Cole Palmer explains why he wanted to wear No.10 at Chelsea

The England international inherited the Blues’ No.10.

Cole Palmer disclosed that the goal of wearing Chelsea’s number 10 shirt was to try to imitate Wayne Rooney and Lionel Messi, two of his idols.

Palmer moved from Manchester City to the Blues in 2023. Since then, he has excelled for Chelsea, tallying 40 goals and dishing out 26 assists throughout all competitions. Former Chelsea legends Eden Hazard, Joe Cole, and Willian all wore the number 10.

Now, finally, the 23-year-old decided to switch it up. In Chelsea’s opening match at this year’s FIFA Club World Cup, they defeated Los Angeles FC 2-0. Palmer made his debut wearing his new number.

Prior to the Blues’ second match against Flamengo of Brazil at Lincoln Financial Field in the Club World Cup, the England international was speaking after donning the No.10, which has been worn by his idols Messi and Rooney.

Cole Palmer explains the feeling of wearing No.10 on his back

Palmer said:

“Messi, the big one, Rooney and players like that. It’s just an iconic number. I wore No. 10 all my life growing up and I just like the number.”

Chelsea’s Club World Cup final games were played under the previous system against Brazilian opponents, where they defeated Palmeiras 2-1 in the 2021 final and lost to Corinthians 1-0 in the 2012 final.

With Chelsea’s 4-1 victory over Real Betis a month ago, Palmer was the first player to be involved in two goals in a major European final since Marcelo for Real Madrid in the 2018 UEFA Champions League final. He also became the first to do it for an English team since Juan Mata did the same for Chelsea against Benfica in the 2013 UEFA Europa League final.

Now wearing the No.10, the England international is carrying a big weight on his back. He will be looking to make a significant impact in the Club World Cup and next season for the West Londoners.

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