Chelsea Legend Gianfranco Zola Backs Cole Palmer as a Future Ballon d'Or Contender

Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola is a big fan of Cole Palmer and thinks he might win the Ballon d’Or if he continues to improve at this rate. Zola is One of Chelsea’s best players, and he believes that Palmer has a unique style of play on the field that reminds him of his own skills. Zola praised Palmer’s skills after his outstanding performance in Chelsea’s most recent victory over Newcastle, where he was awarded the Man of the Match. While watching the game at Stamford Bridge, Zola took note of Palmer’s ability to make clever passes that other players could not do.

Among Palme’s performances that caught Zola’s attention was the pass to his teammate Pedro Neto, which led to Chelsea’s first goal. According to Zola, Palmer already knows what he wants to do with the ball before he gets it, which gives him advantage over their opponents. Most players only consider their next move after receiving the ball, but Palmer is already one step ahead, and Zola believes this is a rare and valuable talent.

Palmer’s recent performances have been amazing, and last month’s game against Brighton was especially impressive because he scored four goals. Palmer made the 30-man Ballon d’Or shortlist thanks to his 22 Premier League goals from last season, including one in the Euro 2024 final. In Zola’s opinion, Palmer would be at the top if he works a little harder, particularly on his physical strength and quickness. Zola believes Palmer could become even more powerful if he concentrated on developing his physical abilities, which would make him more difficult to defend against, even though his mind is quick on the field.

Chelsea’s current coach Enzo Maresca, has given the team stability and organization, and because of this Zola is certain Palmer is in good hands with him. Since Maresca took over, Chelsea has made big progress and is currently fifth in the Premier League and the team is everyone’s favorite in the Europa Conference League. Zola also praised Maresca’s coaching style, saying it has helped Palmer and the rest of the team develop and play with a clear strategy after instability last season.