The departure of Mauricio Pochettino has raised concerns about Cole Palmer’s future.
Cole Palmer could emerge as a surprise target for Man United. (Image: Getty)
Cole Palmer, the England star, wrote a heartfelt farewell to his former manager, Mauricio Pochettino, and Chelsea’s decision to allow him to leave could jeopardize Palmer’s future.
Palmer received his first Premier League opportunity under Pochettino, and the young player returned the favor by scoring 27 goals and providing assists for another 15.
However, with more uncertainty still to come at Chelsea and another new manager anticipated to take over prior to preseason, Palmer might soon be tempted to look into options outside of Stamford Bridge.
Following the news of Pochettino’s departure, the 22-year-old took to social media to express his gratitude, writing, “Gaffer, thank you for everything you have done for me & making my dreams come true.” Best wishes to all.
Palmer is reportedly just one of many Chelsea players who were taken aback by the transfer, as it seemed like things were gradually improving in the locker room under Pochettino.
The Chelsea team will now have to start over, which may lead their best players—Palmer in particular—to think about choosing a different path.
Manchester United, the three-time European champions, will probably be among the teams on high alert if that turns out to be the case, as they have a number of covert weapons at their disposal.
The most notable of these is the 53-year-old Jason Wilcox’s recent appointment to the position of technical director for the team. Wilcox joined from Southampton earlier this year.
Additionally, Palmer’s development was assisted by Wilcox while he served as Manchester City’s academy director; in fact, the football guru had a hand in the forward’s development.
In the event that Palmer becomes available, that current relationship may prove vital for United, in part because Palmer is the kind of player the new ownership is hoping to acquire.
When Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the INEOS group took over earlier this year, there was much talk that the Red Devils would prioritize adding young, homegrown talent to their transfer wish list.
Palmer, the Premier League Young Player of the Season, may have moved to United for personal reasons, but few other players fit that description as much.
Jason Wilcox worked with Cole Palmer at Manchester City. (Image: Getty)
That’s because, despite spending 13 years in the City academy, the Wythenshawe-born ace is a self-professed United fan.
“Yeah, I was a United fan growing up,” he said in an April speech.
Palmer may get the opportunity to realize a lifelong dream of wearing the renowned red and white of United when he runs out at Old Trafford.
