Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca discussed Cole Palmer's unique talent and contribution to the team's success on Friday. Maresca expressed his privilege in working with the young forward.
Palmer has been instrumental in Chelsea's surprising ascent to second place in the Premier League.
He leads the team in scoring with 11 goals and six assists in 15 games. The England international's confidence was evident in his chipped penalty against Tottenham last weekend. Maresca cited this moment as an example of Palmer's distinct abilities.
“I feel very proud and privileged to work with Cole. Cole is a different one to the rest,” the Italian said.
Chelsea will host Brentford on Sunday, aiming to maintain pressure on Liverpool in the title race. The Blues trail Liverpool by four points, with Liverpool having a game in hand. Chelsea also seeks Champions League qualification.
Palmer's performance will be crucial to Chelsea's pursuit of the title and a return to the Champions League.
Maresca, who previously coached Palmer at Manchester City's Elite Development Squad, commended Palmer's composure under pressure. He highlighted the forward's ability to handle the expectations of being Chelsea's key player.
“Many top players have that way,” he said. “They look like they almost don’t care but it’s just their way and being in that way gives them more freedom.
“They can relax and you can see Cole is the same way. Cole was this way five years ago and he’s still the same.”
Maresca was asked to assess Palmer's standing among English players.
“At this moment, he could be, but England are lucky because there are so many good players and Cole is one of them. There are so many good players in the Premier League.
“Absolutely he can be world class but as you said, he is only 22 and there are many things he can improve, including that at the moment, everyone is marking him man-to-man, but there are many things he can still improve.”
Maresca acknowledged the possibility of Palmer being the best player in England currently. He also emphasized the abundance of talent in the Premier League.
He pointed out Palmer's young age and potential for further development, despite facing consistent man-marking. Maresca believes Palmer can reach world-class status.
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