Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer is set for a surprising change of position under new manager Enzo Maresca. The 22-year-old had a fantastic debut season at Stamford Bridge, scoring 27 goals and providing 15 assists. Previously, Palmer played as a right-winger or occasionally as a No. 10 under former manager Mauricio Pochettino. However, the Athletic reports that Maresca plans to deploy Palmer in a new permanent role through the middle.
Maresca is implementing a new style of football at Chelsea, focusing on passing out from the back and creating an ultra-attacking high block. In this system, players are encouraged to drift into different areas to create opportunities. Palmer is expected to operate as one of Maresca’s two No. 8s, pushing forward as a supporting striker when in control of the ball.
This positional change opens up space for Maresca to bring in a super-pacey winger on the flank. While Chelsea already has Noni Madueke, Raheem Sterling, and Mykhailo Mudryk in their squad, the addition of a superstar winger could take them to the next level. The report suggests that Maresca is still hoping to sign another wide-man after failing to secure the transfer of Michael Olise from Crystal Palace.
Chelsea has reportedly shown interest in Spain and Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams as well as Dortmund’s Karim Adeyemi. Adding either of these talented wingers to the squad would provide the attacking prowess and depth that Maresca is looking for.
Overall, Maresca’s decision to shift Palmer’s position and focus on an ultra-attacking style of play demonstrates his commitment to implementing a new football philosophy at Chelsea. By incorporating Palmer as a No. 8, Maresca aims to maximize the young midfielder’s potential and contribute to the team’s success. Additionally, the pursuit of a superstar winger reflects Chelsea’s ambition to further strengthen their squad and compete at the highest level.