Cole Palmer is set to don a new Chelsea shirt number as the Blues gear up for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. The club has officially confirmed that Palmer will switch to the coveted No. 10 jersey ahead of the 2025/26 season, with the change taking effect from the Club World Cup onwards.
Palmer, who has been wearing the No. 20 shirt since his arrival from Manchester City in September 2023, will now inherit the number that has been worn by some of Chelsea's most iconic players. This decision underscores Palmer's importance to the team and the faith the club has in his ability to lead the line. Since joining Chelsea, Palmer has made a significant impact, becoming a key performer and a fan favorite. His contributions were instrumental in Chelsea's return to the Champions League and their recent Conference League final victory.
Chelsea qualified for the expanded 32-team Club World Cup by winning the 2020-21 Champions League title, defeating Manchester City in the final. As one of the Champions League winners from 2021 to 2024, Chelsea secured automatic qualification for the tournament, which will be held in the United States from June to July. They are one of only two Premier League teams participating, the other being Manchester City.
The Club World Cup presents an opportunity for Chelsea to add more silverware to their trophy cabinet. New Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca is keen to follow in the footsteps of the great Chelsea coaches of the past and continue the club's legacy of winning major trophies. Maresca's men got a taste of what America has to offer when they travelled across the States for a pre-season tour ahead of the current domestic campaign. They played games in Atlanta, California, Indiana, North Carolina and Ohio, and the Chelsea boss was enthused with what he saw.
Chelsea will begin their Club World Cup campaign against Los Angeles FC on June 16 at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. They are in Group D alongside Flamengo and Es Tunis. Former Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud is currently with LAFC, setting up a reunion with his old club.
The decision to give Palmer the No. 10 shirt raises questions about the future of Mykhailo Mudryk, who previously held the number. Mudryk is currently serving a provisional suspension after failing a doping test in December 2024.
The No. 10 shirt at Chelsea has a rich history, having been worn by legendary players such as Eden Hazard, Willian, Juan Mata, and Joe Cole. Hazard, in particular, is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in Chelsea's history, and comparisons will inevitably be drawn between him and Palmer.
With the Club World Cup fast approaching, all eyes will be on Cole Palmer as he steps onto the pitch wearing the No. 10 shirt for the first time. Chelsea fans will be hoping that he can continue his impressive form and lead the team to glory in the tournament.
