Summary:
- Cole Palmer scored twice and assisted once as Chelsea beat PSG 3–0 in the Club World Cup final.
- He hit back at critics, saying, “Everyone’s talked a lot of sh*t about us,” praising the club’s progress.
- Palmer also took home the Golden Ball for best player in the tournament.
- Manager Enzo Maresca’s strategy proved spot-on, especially against PSG’s vulnerable left side.
- The victory capped off a turning point season for both Palmer and Chelsea.
A World-Class Performance in New Jersey
Under the bright lights of MetLife Stadium, Chelsea delivered one of their most dominant performances of the season. From the kickoff, the Blues looked sharp, confident, and clinical. Cole Palmer led the charge, scoring twice in the first half and assisting a third goal before halftime.
His first goal came in the 22nd minute—a composed left-footed finish. He repeated the feat just eight minutes later, again beating the keeper with ease. Then, he turned creator, threading a perfect pass for João Pedro to make it 3–0.
Palmer wasn’t just playing well—he was making a statement.
“Everyone’s Talked a Lot of Sh*t”: Palmer Hits Back
After the final whistle, Palmer didn’t hold back in his post-match comments. Speaking with raw honesty, he said, “Everyone’s talked a lot of sh*t about us all season, but I feel like we’re going in the right direction.”
The 23-year-old wasn’t just celebrating a win—he was responding to the constant criticism Chelsea faced throughout the campaign. Despite the noise around them, Palmer insisted that the club, under Enzo Maresca, is building something special.
“He’s creating something important. It’s a young team, and you can feel the energy changing,” Palmer added.
Maresca’s Tactical Masterclass
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca deserves massive credit for the way his team approached the final. His plan was to press PSG early and focus attacks down their weaker left side. That approach worked to perfection.
Palmer found pockets of space, exposed gaps, and punished PSG’s defense with clinical finishing. Chelsea’s press kept the French side from finding any rhythm, and the game was practically over by halftime.
Maresca’s strategy was a perfect blend of aggression and precision—something Chelsea fans had been hoping to see more consistently.
Palmer’s Golden Night
Palmer’s performance earned him the Golden Ball, awarded to the best player in the tournament. It capped a remarkable rise over the past year—from promising prospect to match-winner on the world stage.
This wasn’t a one-off. Palmer had already shone in European competition and delivered big moments throughout the season. But this final felt like a turning point—a game that cemented his place as Chelsea’s new star.
He’s no longer just potential—he’s a player who can carry the team in big moments.
Answering the Critics
Throughout the season, Chelsea were questioned about their direction, consistency, and whether this young squad was ready for top-level success. Palmer’s post-match message made it clear: the players heard those doubts—and they used them as fuel.
“Everyone’s talked a lot of sh*t,” Palmer repeated, reinforcing just how much this win meant to silence the noise around Stamford Bridge.
This wasn’t just about winning a trophy. It was about proving a point—to fans, media, and opponents alike.
What Comes Next for Chelsea?
With preseason matches ahead, including games against Bayer Leverkusen and AC Milan, Chelsea look poised to carry this momentum forward. Palmer will continue to be a focal point in attack, and Maresca’s system looks more refined with every match.
If this form carries into the new Premier League season, Chelsea could be serious contenders again—something few would’ve predicted months ago.
Final Take
Cole Palmer’s brace, assist, and brutal honesty lit up the Club World Cup final. Behind him, Chelsea’s tactical setup and fearless mentality shut down a top PSG side. The critics were loud all season—but Palmer just gave them a performance they can’t ignore.
