NAPLES – Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior has moved quickly to dismiss speculation linking Cole Palmer with a shock move to Manchester United. Following Chelsea’s hard-fought 3-2 victory over Napoli at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, the Blues’ boss clarified Palmer’s recent benching and reaffirmed the midfielder’s commitment to the club.
The English star, who has been nursing minor physical issues throughout the season, started the Champions League clash as a substitute a move that sparked fresh rumors about his future at Stamford Bridge.
“We need to take care of him”
Rosenior was quick to point out that Palmer’s absence from the starting XI was purely tactical and fitness-related. “Cole wasn’t in a condition to start the match and play 60 or 70 minutes,” Rosenior explained. “I thought we would be stronger toward the end of the game with him coming on. I thought Cole was magnificent.”
After missing recent wins against Pafos and Crystal Palace, Palmer’s return is being carefully managed by the medical staff. “We need to take care of him. His behavior over the last two weeks has been world-class,” the manager added.
Dismissing the Manchester United Links
Despite intense speculation in the British media suggesting a potential move to Old Trafford next season, Rosenior insists that the “number 10” is settled in West London.
“There’s been a lot of talk about Cole’s future, but he was very, very happy in the locker room after the game,” Rosenior said, effectively putting an end to the transfer talk. With Chelsea fighting for a top-four spot, keeping their talisman is seen as the board’s top priority.
Looking Ahead: The London Derby
With their place in the Champions League Round of 16 now secured, Chelsea shifts its focus back to the Premier League. The Blues host West Ham this Saturday at Stamford Bridge in a crucial Matchday 24 encounter.
A win against the Hammers, combined with a Manchester United slip-up against Fulham, could see Rosenior’s side leapfrog their rivals and break into the Champions League qualification spots.
Ronald Mike is a football writer covering the English Premier League, providing match analysis, tactical insight, and coverage of key rivalries and title races across the season.
