Cole Palmer Breaks Silence: Hasn’t Spoken to Mudryk After Taking No 10 & His Four-Year Drugs Ban!
Cole Palmer Confirms He Has Not Spoken to Mykhailo Mudryk About Shirt Number Change
Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer has revealed that he did not discuss with Mykhailo Mudryk before adopting the No 10 jersey previously worn by the Ukrainian forward. Palmer, who previously wore No 20, took on the prestigious number ahead of the Club World Cup, especially given Mudryk’s current four-year ban after a positive drugs test for meldonium.
Palmer explained his choice, saying, “I’ve worn No 10 throughout my life because I like the number. It’s iconic—like Messi and Rooney.” Regarding Mudryk, Palmer added, “I haven’t spoken to him yet but I plan to when the time feels right. It’s not my place to get involved now, but I will talk to him.”
He arrived in the US wearing a face mask, which sparked some speculation about illness or playful antics. Palmer clarified, “It’s not a joke. I just don’t like the smell of planes. That’s the only reason I wear it. Enzo Maresca doesn’t know—I didn’t tell him, but he didn’t ask.”
Palmer did not speak with Mudryk about the jersey change
He previously wore No 20 before switching to No 10 for the Club World Cup
Palmer also commented on fatigue after a demanding season, noting, “We’ve been playing continuously for a year. I’ll need a break, but with Champions League now here, no one’s tired.” Maresca emphasized to Palmer that he has the freedom to express himself on the pitch, with Palmer adding, “He still gives us room to show what we can do.”
Speaking about his rapid rise, Palmer reflected, “Initially, it was overwhelming, but I’ve gotten used to it. I’m just a normal kid who’s surprised by the attention. Most importantly, I remember it’s just football—nothing more, nothing less. I try to enjoy it and do normal things like playing five-a-side.”
Looking ahead, Palmer anticipates Chelsea’s upcoming match against Flamengo in the Club World Cup and looks forward to competing alongside new signing Estevao Willian from Palmeiras, with whom he’s already expressed enthusiasm about playing together, despite language barriers.