It wasn’t Mauricio Pochettino’s idea to sign Cole Palmer, the argentine manager stated clearly. Following Manchester City’s approval of a £42.5 million bid, the 21-year-old midfielder has agreed to a seven-year contract with Chelsea that includes a club option for an additional 12-months. On Saturday afternoon, when the Blues host Nottingham Forest to Stamford Bridge, Palmer will be available in the squad. The England Under-21 international come off the bench in order to make his debut against Steve Cooper’s team. As Christopher Nkunku is anticipated to be out till the end of the year, this is a great oppurtunity.
Mauricio Pochettino lauds sporting directors for signing Cole Palmer
When questioned about Palmer ahead of the west Londoners’ match against Forest, Pochettino immediately praised co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley for their efforts. It’s fascinating that the former City player became a target for Chelsea on Wednesday morning. In addition the Blues were able to reach a deal within a few hours. Pochettino gives the credit saying:
“I think the sporting director and the owner of course. But the sporting director it was his idea to add him to the squad.“
“I think he’s fit for the project. Talented player, of course.”
The Blues boss was asked to reflect on why he felt Palmer wanted to join Chelsea. Thus he says :
“Also he decided to come because he expects to play maybe more and be important here but I think that is not the most important. He decided to come because Chelsea is a project for him and improve his game and going to be more involved in every single game.”
“I think the quality is there, it’s great potential and of course now he needs to settle here and prove and show that he’s better than his teammates and to play. It’s hard to fight for his place.”
The youngster needs time to settle amid his training at Cobham
Palmer got snapped up in time to play against Forest, but Pochettino has stated that it will take him some time to settle in west London. “We need to be careful with the young guys,” the Argentine said.
“They need time to settle, he’s from Manchester, he’s going to move to London. London is different, the club is different, the culture and everything, before he starts to perform he needs to settle and feel comfortable.”
“We’re not going to put pressure on him to perform like any player. The most important thing now is to be calm and for him to be happy and find his space on the team.”
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