Cole Palmer reveals reason for choosing number 10 at Chelsea

Cole Palmer reveals the reasoning behind his decision to wear the number 10 shirt at Chelsea — inspired by his idols Lionel Messi and Wayne Rooney.

The 23-year-old midfielder recently switched from number 20 to 10 ahead of the Club World Cup — wearing it for the first time in Monday’s 2-0 victory over Los Angeles FC.

“Messi is the main one, then Rooney and players like that. It’s an iconic number. I wore number 10 throughout my childhood and I really love it,” Palmer stated.

Previously, Chelsea’s number 10 was worn by club legends like Eden Hazard, Joe Cole, and Willian — most recently by Mykhailo Mudryk who now faces a potential four-year ban after FA charged him with a doping violation.

Palmer, who joined Chelsea about two years ago for £42.5 million, also clarified his previous comments about the team’s playing style — emphasizing it wasn’t criticism toward coach Enzo Maresca.

Despite now being one of Chelsea’s main stars with his face adorning promotional banners for the Club World Cup in Philadelphia, Palmer maintains his humility — still enjoying five-a-side football and other normal activities in his spare time.