
(foto: Official TW/IG/FB account)
Cole Palmer’s journey from a United-supporting kid to a Chelsea star reflects his family’s rich heritage, early setbacks, and relentless drive to succeed.
Cole Palmer has emerged as one of Chelsea’s brightest stars this season, but his path to stardom is as fascinating as his rise on the pitch. From a family with deep Caribbean roots to mimicking Wayne Rooney in his garden as a boy, Palmer’s story is one of resilience and determination.
Family heritage and childhood dreams
Born in Wythenshawe, Manchester, in 2002 to Marie and Jermaine, Palmer’s roots trace back to Saint Kitts and Nevis, a small Caribbean island. His grandfather, Sterry Cole, recalled the family’s journey to the UK in the 1950s in search of a better life. Life was different when Sterry arrived in Manchester in 1960 after a two-week voyage from the Caribbean, adjusting to new surroundings, weather, and culture.
Palmer’s great-grandfather worked in a garage while his great-grandmother found employment as a sewing machinist. Sterry entered the construction industry, never imagining that just two generations later, his grandson would earn millions as a footballer.
As a child, Palmer’s idol was Rooney, and he grew up wearing Manchester United shirts, with no interest in Chelsea or City jerseys. He said, "What a player. When I was growing up I used to watch all the football, and the one that sticks in my mind is Rooney. Ever since I was a little kid he has been my footballing hero."
From City recruit to Chelsea star
Palmer’s life took a significant turn when he was scouted by Manchester City at the age of eight. Despite being a United fan, City’s superior facilities and training convinced his family it was the right move. His grandfather recalled, "When he first joined City, he used to wear a United shirt or some sort of United garment under his sky-blue shirt."
Palmer made his debut for City in September 2020 in an EFL Cup match against Burnley. While his initial seasons saw limited game time, he gradually became a regular off the bench during the 2022/23 campaign, playing in key fixtures against top teams such as Liverpool and Chelsea. His performances caught the eye in the summer of 2023 when he scored in both the UEFA Super Cup final and the Community Shield.
However, with stiff competition at City, Palmer moved to Chelsea in a £40 million transfer. Since joining, he has registered an impressive 21 goals and 12 assists, quickly becoming a key figure under manager Mauricio Pochettino. Speaking about Palmer, Pochettino said, "His mentality is amazing. He is a top player but there is still space to improve thanks to an incredible mentality."
National team breakthrough and signature celebration
Palmer’s talent earned him a call-up to the senior England squad in November 2023, after helping the Under-21s win the Euros earlier that year. He has also developed a signature celebration—placing a hand on his opposite arm as if shivering—earning him the nickname ‘Cold Palmer.’
Palmer explained that the celebration originated from a friend, Morgan Rogers, and has since become a symbol of his coolness in front of goal.
Staying grounded: Family and life off the pitch
Despite his rapid rise, Palmer remains deeply connected to his family, crediting his father for his success. "Without my dad, I probably wouldn't be a footballer. He did numerous hours with me every night, working with me to try and make me a professional footballer. And yeah, I am trying to repay him as much as I can," Palmer said.
Until 2022, the family lived in a modest semi-detached home in Cheshire, which they sold for £350,000. Jermaine, who fixes dental equipment, often speaks about his son’s talent from an early age. "He’ll tell you how good he was," Palmer joked about his father’s Sunday League playing days.
Off the pitch, Palmer enjoys life, owning a fleet of luxury cars, including a £190,000 Lamborghini Urus and a £71,000 BMW i4. He has also dabbled in fashion, modeling for boohooMAN in a series of stylish outfits.
Proud of his Caribbean heritage, Palmer showcased his rapping skills in a viral TikTok video, further endearing himself to fans. The clip has since become a symbol of celebration whenever he scores or delivers a standout performance.
Looking ahead
With an impressive season underway and a bright future ahead, Palmer’s journey is only beginning. As Pochettino and England manager Gareth Southgate continue to develop his talent, Palmer looks set to become one of the game’s leading lights for years to come.