Later today, on 20 June 2025, Chelsea will be in action for their second Group D clash in the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup against Brazilian side Flamengo. Ahead of the match, Chelsea star Cole Palmer revealed the reason behind choosing the number 10 shirt.
Earlier, he used to wear the number 20 shirt, but ahead of this ongoing FIFA Club World Cup, he changed, and in their 2-0 win over Los Angeles FC, he was seen wearing the number 10 shirt for the first time.
As quoted by ESPN, Palmer said he wanted Chelsea’s number 10 shirt to emulate his idols, Lionel Messi and Wayne Rooney. When asked whether there were any particular number 10s he looked up to, Palmer said: “Messi, the big one, Rooney and players like that. It’s just an iconic number. I wore No. 10 all my life growing up and I just like the number.”
Cole Palmer joined Chelsea from Manchester City in September 2023
Several top talents have worn the famous number 10 shirt for Chelsea over the years, including Eden Hazard, Willian, and most recently, Mykhailo Mudryk. However, Mudryk is currently facing a potential four-year ban after being charged by the Football Association (FA) with a doping offence related to a positive drugs test.
“I have not spoken to Misha yet but I will when the time is right. It is not really my place to get involved with him at the minute. I will speak to him,” said Palmer.
Since his arrival at Chelsea, Palmer has impressed with his performances and is widely regarded as one of English football’s brightest young talents. He joined the club in a £42.5 million deal from Manchester City in September 2023, having made 19 Premier League appearances for City.
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