Match Coverage

Cole Palmer raves about Chelsea teammate who ‘changed the game’ in the Palmeiras win

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Cole Palmer was massively impressed by one Chelsea teammate for his performance in the Club World Cup.

The Blues are through to the tournament’s last four after beating Palmeiras by a 2-1 scoreline during Saturday’s quarter-final tie.

Cole Palmer, 23, scored his first goal at the Club World Cup with a tidy left-footed finish. In fact, Palmeiras manager Abel Ferreira admitted his side couldn’t deal with Palmer throughout the knockout tie.

However, Estevao Willian equalised for the Brazilian club shortly after half time, making a great impression in his final Palmeiras game before his move to Chelsea happens this summer.

Enzo Maresca’s side did regain control before a Giay Agustin own goal eventually gifted them the win.

Joao Pedro runs on the pitch for his Chelsea debut in the Club World Cup quarter-final against Palmeiras.
Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images

Cole Palmer majorly impressed with Joao Pedro

During Chelsea’s victory against Palmeiras, Joao Pedro made his debut for the club despite only joining them from Brighton earlier in the week. The 23-year-old forward looked really positive after entering the action in the 54th minute, too.

Chelsea fans raved about Pedro’s display as he made a perfect first impression.

Even more importantly, Blues star Palmer has spoken glowingly of his new teammate after the Club World Cup success.

When asked about Pedro’s Chelsea debut, Palmer told HaytersTV: “I think he did very well tonight. I think he changed the game for us. He’s been on holiday in Brazil, so we didn’t know what to expect [in terms of] match sharpness and those things, but tonight I think he changed the game.”

Pedro expressed his excitement to play alongside Palmer following his move to Chelsea, and we’re optimistic that the two technically gifted footballers will be able to connect in the final third.

It was a great introduction for Pedro to the Blues supporters with a great impact. In this modern world, the Brazilian attacker will ultimately be judged by his attacking output.

Cole Palmer playing for Chelsea against Palmeiras in the Club World Cup quarter-finals.
Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images

Cole Palmer also impressed by Estevao Willian

In his post-match press conference, Palmer also delivered high praise on opposition player Estevao, who he’ll soon be sharing a dressing room with.

Palmer said via HaytersTV: “I just said we look forward to seeing you, but he didn’t understand a word I said. He’s a top player, and he’s only young as well. When he comes to England, people need to give him time. He needs to adapt to the culture and the language. He’s still only 18. But you can see he’s got amazing quality, and we look forward to seeing him.”

All of a sudden, Chelsea will have some real Brazilian flair in their squad going into the new season. Estevao, Pedro and Andrey Santos are the new South American stars that are about to inject huge quality and flair to the group.

Chelsea have enjoyed some great Brazilians in the past, so let’s hope this new batch can write their name into the history books.