Cole Palmer backed to win Ballon d’Or

Former Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo has backed Cole Palmer to reach Ballon d’Or level, comparing the 23-year-old to club legend Eden Hazard.

This follows a string of standout performances by the English star for the Blues.

Palmer recently scored twice in the Club World Cup final as Chelsea beat Paris Saint-Germain to secure their second title of the 2024–25 season.

The England international has been Chelsea’s most consistent performer since joining from Manchester City in 2023, scoring 37 Premier League goals in 71 appearances over two seasons.

Di Matteo praised Palmer’s intelligence and flair, telling Online Casino Games: “Cole Palmer is very difficult to mark and defend against because he’s such an intelligent player and always knows where to find space.

If I had to compare him to a former Chelsea player, maybe Eden Hazard. Hazard could slide past opponents, score, assist, and Palmer is doing the same.”

The Italian, who won the Champions League as Chelsea manager in 2012, believes Palmer has the tools to compete for football’s most prestigious individual honour.

“I think Cole Palmer has all the qualities to win a Ballon d’Or in his career,” he said.

“But to do that, you need Champions League football, Premier League success, and international achievements with England. When Palmer’s on fire, the team is on fire.”

Palmer is expected to return to Chelsea’s pre-season camp in August, with friendlies lined up against Bayer Leverkusen and AC Milan.

The Blues will open their 2025–26 Premier League campaign against Crystal Palace on August 17.