Paul Merson makes Cole Palmer prediction after signing nine-year Chelsea deal

Paul Merson Predicts Shock For Cole Palmer And Criticizes Chelsea's Long Contract Offer

Callum McAvoy's blog post was published on August 13, 2024, at 9:43pm and was updated at 9:49pm on the same day.

Paul Merson confidently predicts that Cole Palmer from Chelsea will find it difficult to match his outstanding performance from last season.

The English player had a fantastic first season at Stamford Bridge in 2023/24, scoring 25 goals and providing 15 assists in all games.

Chelsea's top management was clearly pleased with their star player and decided to offer him a new nine-year contract with better conditions, even though he still had seven years remaining on his previous contract.

The midfielder known for his attacking skills will need to perform well in the next season as the Blues face Manchester City, the team he supported as a child, on Sunday.

Merson is doubtful that the 22-year-old will be able to meet expectations, as he believes that every opposing team will now target Palmer to prevent him from performing well.

"He's had an amazing season and he's a talented player. However, this season every team we face will be focusing on stopping Cole Palmer," noted the former Arsenal player during an interview on Sky Sports.

"He's had that consistently. Are you really going to give him a nine-year contract now?"

I'm not confident [he will score 15 goals]. He was incredible last season but this season he is facing tougher opposition.

We have witnessed this scenario countless times, for example with Emmanuel Adebayor. He excelled at Arsenal, received a new contract, and then faced intense scrutiny.

"It's going to be challenging. If he manages to score 15 goals next season, I will be impressed and say 'wow, well done to you'. 15 goals is quite a substantial amount."

Merson didn't hesitate to criticize Chelsea for giving out very lengthy contracts under their new ownership, which has become more common since Todd Boehly took over.

"This is a great opportunity for the club, they really have no idea what they are doing," he continued.

I'm not trying to be mean, but how can we predict what Palmer will be like in nine years?

I have a positive opinion of him, but it seems unfair that certain players are being offered long-term contracts of six, seven, or even eight years, especially when they are not regular starters. This is likely why Conor Gallagher is leaving, as he was only offered a two-year contract.

You remember Joao Cancelo, right? Three years ago at Manchester City, he really stepped up his game. But just a year later, he was suddenly no longer with the team.

It is impossible to predict how these players will develop in the next six or seven years.

To find more articles like this one, visit our sports section.

Keep up with the newest updates from Metro Sport by following us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

New: Luke Shaw's recent injury will prevent him from playing in several upcoming matches for Manchester United.

UPDATE: Former Chelsea players admit they are talking to a top player worth £110 million to convince him to sign with the club.

Former Tottenham player has stated that there is a player in Chelsea's squad who cannot be coached. Enzo Maresca is believed to be the individual in question.

This website is safeguarded by reCAPTCHA and follows the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.