Key Takeaways:
- Marcel Desailly tipped Cole Palmer to hand in a transfer request if Chelsea do not contend for the Premier League in the next two seasons
- Palmer has contributed just five goals in 13 appearances this season, compared to 18 goals and 14 assists last season and 25 goals and 15 assists the previous campaign
- Palmer’s penalty sealed a 2-0 win over Brentford last weekend as Chelsea remain sixth in the Premier League, one point outside the top five
Desailly’s View on Palmer’s Future
Marcel Desailly, former Chelsea captain and 2000 FA Cup winner, has suggested that Cole Palmer could seek a transfer away from Stamford Bridge if the club fails to mount a serious Premier League title challenge across the next two years. Speaking to Card Player, Desailly acknowledged persistent speculation regarding Palmer’s future and highlighted the 23-year-old’s struggle to settle in London.
While acknowledging Palmer’s ambitions for greater stability and a tactical system tailored to his strengths, Desailly emphasised the importance of the England international maintaining respect for Chelsea and returning to top form following the groin injury he picked up earlier in the campaign. Desailly stated: “If Cole Palmer decides to move away from Chelsea then that’s his business, but I just want him to respect the club, because they are the ones who have given him the tools to become the player he is now.
🚨 Cole Palmer is willing to return to Manchester to join Manchester United, following suggestions he may be feeling 'homesick' in London. Although, is currently on a contact until 2033 at Stamford Bridge. [@DExpress_Sport] pic.twitter.com/eL47BTAd6O
— The United Stand (@UnitedStandMUFC) January 22, 2026
“I would love him to stay at Stamford Bridge because he’s got a key role in the team, even if Enzo Maresca used him in various positions.
“I believe Palmer wants more stability and a system that’s built for him, but he still needs to fully recover from his groin injury and get back to full fitness.
“His recent performances speak for themselves, so he needs to stay humble and come back into the team to help the club, regardless of whether he stays or goes.”
Transfer Speculation and Possible Destinations
Speculation continues to link Palmer with a potential return to his boyhood club Manchester City, amid talk of a reunion with former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, as well as interest from Manchester United – the club he supported growing up. Desailly believes Palmer’s decision may hinge on Chelsea’s prospects under their new manager:
“The question is whether he feels like Chelsea are going to win the Premier League in the next two seasons.
“If he doesn’t, I’m sure he will ask for a transfer request to a club that will build a system around him.
“For now, however, he needs to hit his previous levels for Chelsea to help them and their new manager through this period.”
Performance Data and Current Form
Palmer’s current campaign has seen a dip in output compared to previous seasons. After scoring a penalty to secure a 2-0 victory against Brentford last weekend, he has now recorded five goals in 13 matches. By contrast, the previous two years saw returns of 18 goals and 14 assists, and 25 goals and 15 assists, respectively.
Chelsea’s Position and Upcoming Fixtures
Chelsea currently occupy sixth place in the Premier League, sitting one point outside the top five – a position which could secure Champions League qualification through the league route. Liam Rosenior’s side are set to visit Crystal Palace next weekend before hosting West Ham, with a high-stakes Champions League fixture against Napoli sandwiched in-between.
Chelsea’s 1-0 victory over Pafos last night has propelled them into the automatic qualification spots for the Champions League last 16. Meanwhile, Napoli have struggled in Europe this season and must win their upcoming clash to avoid dropping into the playoffs or being eliminated from continental competition altogether.
