Enzo Maresca has likened Cole Palmer’s growing influence at Chelsea to Mohamed Salah’s pivotal role at Liverpool, praising the young midfielder’s maturity and ability to thrive under pressure.
Palmer was instrumental in Chelsea’s 3-1 victory over Wolves, a match that saw the team recover from a costly error by goalkeeper Robert Sanchez.
Goals from Marc Cucurella and Noni Madueke helped restore Chelsea’s lead, but it was Palmer’s commanding performance in midfield that stood out.
Maresca, reflecting on the 21-year-old’s impact, said, “He’s showing incredible progress, not just through his goals and assists.
His performance in the second half against Wolves was among the best I’ve seen since I arrived.
He wanted the ball at every critical moment.
A steadying influence in tough moments
Maresca further emphasized Palmer’s growing leadership qualities, comparing him to key figures in other Premier League teams.
“When Liverpool face challenges, Salah takes responsibility and asks for the ball.
The same goes for Odegaard at Arsenal. We need players like that who provide reassurance to their teammates in tough situations,” the Chelsea manager noted.
Palmer, who joined Chelsea from Manchester City, has quickly become a vital part of the squad.
With 14 goals this season, he leads Chelsea’s scoring charts and has already achieved the distinction of being the second-fastest player in the club’s history to reach 30 Premier League goals, trailing only Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink.
Youthful resilience amidst a challenging campaign
Chelsea’s young squad, averaging under 23 years of age, has faced scrutiny during a challenging season.
However, Palmer’s performances have offered hope and stability, showcasing maturity beyond his years.
Addressing Manchester City’s decision to let Palmer leave, Maresca said, “I don’t think City regret it.
With the depth of options available to Guardiola, it was hard to give him the minutes he deserved.
It was never about his talent, but about balancing the squad.
As Chelsea navigates a period of rebuilding, Palmer’s emergence as a leader offers a promising glimpse into the team’s future.
His ability to emulate the influence of players like Salah and Odegaard suggests he could become a cornerstone of the club’s ambitions in the years to come.
