Cole Palmer has quickly become a standout talent in the Premier League following his transfer from Manchester City to Chelsea in the summer of 2023.
However, former Manchester United assistant manager Rene Meulensteen believes his old club missed a golden opportunity to bring the Wythenshawe-born star to Old Trafford.
Palmer, who joined City’s academy at the age of seven, grew up a Manchester United fan. Despite that, he moved to Stamford Bridge in a £40 million deal, bypassing any apparent interest from his boyhood team.
Speaking to OLBG, Meulensteen voiced his bafflement: “Why did Cole Palmer end up at Chelsea when he is a Manchester United fan? Why did United not pick him up?”
Palmer’s transfer to Chelsea has proven a smart move for the Blues, as the versatile forward has become a crucial part of their attack. His form contrasts sharply with United’s ongoing struggles under Erik ten Hag, including a recent 3-2 loss to Nottingham Forest.
Amid United’s defensive woes, 19-year-old French defender Leny Yoro made his full debut against Forest but endured a challenging outing. The youngster, who recently returned from a fractured metatarsal, was part of a backline that conceded three goals at Old Trafford.
Meulensteen cautioned against expecting too much from Yoro so early in his Premier League career: “He is young, has lots of potential, but it’s too early to say if he will be a regular part of the back three going forward. We shouldn’t expect too much of him yet.”
Meulensteen’s remarks underscore United’s struggles in the transfer market, with questions lingering about the club’s scouting and recruitment strategy.
The Dutchman compared United’s situation with their inability to secure stars like Erling Haaland or Rodri, who have transformed rivals Manchester City into a juggernaut:
“Can you imagine Manchester United with Haaland? He’d add 25 or 30 goals straight away. Then you look at Rodri or Phil Foden—players United could have pursued.”
As Chelsea reap the rewards of Palmer’s arrival, United are left to wonder what might have been if they had acted on the opportunity to secure one of the Premier League’s most exciting young talents.