"There's no logic to it, it doesn't make sense" - Pundit surprised by Chelsea's decision to hand Cole Palmer a new deal
Former Liverpool player-turned-pundit Danny Murphy has questioned Chelsea's decision to extend Cole Palmer's stay at Stamford Bridge. While the Blues had an average last season, which saw them only sneak out of midtable obscurity, Palmer was a delight for the fans. He was easily the best player at the club, as he took control of the attack, scoring 25 goals and providing 15 assists in 45 games.
His performances also paved the way for a spot in England's Euro 2024 squad, and he helped the Three Lions reach the final. These impressive showings led the Blues to hand him a contract extension, which will see him stay at the club till 2033.
This did not sit well with Danny Murphy, who said on The White and Jordan Show (via talkSPORT):
"It's quite unique what Chelsea have done and are doing. I think it's crazy from both aspects, well not so much the player, but the club are committing to a salary for a player for nine years, who, irrelevant of his talent, could have a horrendous injury or two.
"He could lose his appetite, could change his philosophy and attitude in the way he conducts himself, the way he plays. It's just a huge gamble to do it with so many players. I don't see why you would do that when you've already got him on a seven [year deal]."
The pundit finished:
"But there's no logic to it, it doesn't make sense."
Cole Palmer, on the other hand, reportedly indicated his pleasure in extending his contract at Chelsea even further.
Darren Bent discusses Enzo Maresca's job despite Chelsea's extensive squad size
Cole Palmer makes up one of quite a few players at Stamford Bridge who have been brought in to fill up the first-team ranks. While clubs like Arsenal have merely 23 first-team players, Chelsea have nearly twice, with 44 (via Transfermarkt).
The size of their squad has been notable, but the job for Enzo Maresca is to simply get off to a good start, according to Darren Bent. He said (via TalkSPORT):
"Enzo Maresca has got to get it right early. I think that’s what he’s got to do – he’s got to pick a team who he fancies and just go with it."
The manager will be hoping he can lead Chelsea to a strong start when they face Premier League title holders Manchester City in the league this weekend.