Chelsea superstar Cole Palmer’s individual accolades continued to come his way as he was named in FIFA’s Team of the Year for 2025.
Despite it not being his best year, it is likely his brilliant performances in the Club World Cup saw him recognised amongst his peers as one of the best in the world.
England manager Thomas Tuchel voted Palmer second in his personal rankings, only behind international teammate Harry Kane.
In a time where the likes of Morgan Rogers and Phil Foden are starring for Aston Villa and Manchester City respectively, it is good to know that Tuchel remains a very big fan of the Chelsea man.
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While he was runner up for his international manager, there were a number of figures who actually voted Palmer as their best player of the year.
According to FIFA’s official website, Ghana captain Jordan Ayew had the Chelsea man as the number one, as well as Trinidad and Tobago’s Kevin Molino and Cook Islands skipper Thane Pora Vogel Beal.
Palmer was the only Chelsea player to receive any nominations for the award, with coaches from Saudi Arabia and Vietnam also voting the Blues man as number one.
Enzo Maresca also received his fair share of praise in the race for Coach of the Year. Gianluigi Donnarumma voted for Maresca as his best coach.
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Time for Palmer to kick on in 2026
Everyone inside Stamford Bridge was delighted to see Palmer back amongst the goals at the weekend as he announced his return from injury against Everton.
Chelsea’s star man has hardly been able to contribute this season due to an ongoing groin problem, but now looks as if he is ready to make far more of an impact in 2026.
The Blues are protecting him as he regains full fitness. Enzo Maresca did not select Palmer to face Cardiff City, despite their depth players proving not to be good enough to win on their own.
Chelsea have always been a better side when Palmer is in there, and will be hoping for big things next year if he is able to maintain his fitness again.
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