“Fantastic” – Chelsea now have a 21-year-old player in squad worth more than Manchester City’s young Phil Foden
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!In a captivating analysis, Ben Foster has drawn an intriguing parallel between Chelsea’s rising star, Cole Palmer, and Manchester City’s established sensation, Phil Foden. The uncanny similarities between these two English talents extend beyond their shared journey from the Manchester City academy to the first team.
Both Palmer and Foden, as noted by Foster, exhibit the traits of left-footed attacking midfielders boasting exceptional technical skill and versatility. While Foden, at 23, has solidified his status as a senior star at the Etihad Stadium over several seasons, Palmer, aged 21, took a divergent path last summer, opting for a permanent transfer to Chelsea.
Palmer’s decision to move to Stamford Bridge has proven astute, with his stellar performances justifying the switch. Ben Foster, in selecting his Premier League Team of the Season so far, intriguingly favors Palmer over Foden, emphasizing the younger player’s impact, especially considering the challenges of a high-profile transfer and stepping up to a new level.
“I think Phil Foden is probably a better player [than Palmer]. I think he is a more rounded player and would offer you more… But for this season, for performances, hitting the ground running, making the transfer and step up, the age, all of the pressure that surrounded it, I think Cole Palmer is the guy that I would pick at No 10 [in the Team of the Season so far],” shared Foster on his YouTube channel.
Despite acknowledging Foden’s overall superiority, Foster highlights Palmer’s remarkable season, citing 17 Premier League appearances, eight goals, and an unflappable demeanor reminiscent of a young Phil Foden. The comparison centers around their shared quality as skilful creators, providing a spectacle for fans with their joyful approach to the game.
Palmer’s bold move from Manchester to London has undeniably borne fruit for both players. With eight goals and seven assists in 20 appearances, Palmer has swiftly become a talisman for Chelsea. The glowing praise from Troy Deeney, who dubbed Palmer one of the best players on the planet, underscores the young star’s rapid ascent to prominence in West London. The football world eagerly watches as Palmer continues to fulfill his immense potential on the grand stage.