William Gallas has warned Chelsea that they risk losing Cole Palmer unless they can demonstrate their ability to challenge for major honors. The newly crowned England Player of the Year has made an impressive start to the season, showing that last year’s breakthrough was not just a fleeting success.
Enzo Maresca’s young team is currently just four points behind leaders Liverpool, having lost only once—on the opening day against Manchester City. However, a serious challenge for the Premier League title appears unlikely this season, as Maresca’s side is still very much a work in progress.
Although Palmer signed a new contract in August as recognition of his performances after joining from Manchester City just a year ago, Gallas believes that this deal offers limited security if Chelsea fails to improve.
“Barcelona would be a great move for him,” Gallas stated in an interview with Prime Casino. “But they already have great young players like Lamine Yamal and might also be signing Nico Williams. Palmer looks like he is going to have a very similar season to last year, and even though he is young, it will be tough for him to watch his friends winning trophies if he isn’t achieving that at Chelsea, despite his strong performances.”
Gallas added, “I wouldn’t be surprised if he wants to have a conversation with Chelsea in the summer if they fail to win a trophy again. He will want to understand their targets moving forward.”
He emphasized Palmer’s potential, saying, “He has the ability to go anywhere he wants and be a success because he is a very special player. His quality is unlike any other English player, and he could be a huge success wherever he goes. Definitely.”
Chelsea will face a significant test of their top-four aspirations in the coming weeks, with challenging matches against Newcastle, Liverpool, and Arsenal on the horizon.