Ruud Gullit told Cole Palmer to up his game this season. Speaking to NY Sports Day, the Blues legend said…
“I watched Cole Palmer against Paris Saint-Germain (in last season’s Champions League second leg, Chelsea losing 3-0), and he struggled more in that match than in any other. In hindsight, the manager should have moved him out to the right flank rather than keeping him central, because he couldn’t cope with the central tempo that night. Starting out wide would have allowed him to drift inside on his terms.
“That match should be his primary learning reference. He needs to rewatch it and ask himself honestly, ‘What could I have done better to control the tempo?’ If he processes those lessons, he’ll take another massive step forward, because the raw ability is undeniably there.
Alonso played at the highest level for elite clubs. Alonso wasn’t the fastest player either, but he possessed an elite football IQ. He read the game early and anticipated play to avoid getting trapped in high-pressure zones. Palmer needs to cultivate that same anticipatory vision.”
