Cole Palmer change squad number from 20 to 10 ahead of 2025/26 season

Chelsea Football Club has officially confirmed that rising star Cole Palmer will be taking on the iconic No.10 shirt ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. The move comes as the club prepares for an important international tournament, with Palmer set to don the new number starting from the FIFA Club World Cup.

The iconic number which was previously donned by Mykhailo Mudryk last season has surprisingly been taken from him, with questions about his future hanging. The 24-year-old hasn’t played since testing positive for the banned substance meldonium in December.

Palmer has been a revelation for the West London side since joining from Manchester City six months after Mudryk, with 37 Premier League goals in two seasons and putting up an excellent performance with the Englishman, scoring 15 goals and putting up 12 assists in 46 games during the 2024/25 season.

This change signifies the club’s confidence in Palmer’s potential and his growing role within the team. Since joining Chelsea from Manchester City in September 2023, Palmer has been wearing the No.20 shirt.

His performances over the past season have impressed fans and management, leading to the decision to upgrade his squad number to the prestigious No.10. This shirt is often associated with creative playmakers and key attacking talents, highlighting Palmer’s importance to the team’s future plans.

Palmer’s first opportunity to wear the No.10 jersey will be during Chelsea’s upcoming appearance at the US-based FIFA Club World Cup. The Blues are scheduled to face Los Angeles FC in Atlanta on June 16, where Palmer could make his debut with his new number.

Fans are eager to see if the young midfielder can make an immediate impact in this high-profile contest and showcase his skills on a global stage. The switch to the No.10 shirt is seen as a significant milestone in Palmer’s career at Chelsea. It reflects the club’s belief in his ability to become a central figure in their attacking lineup and a future leader.

With his technical ability and vision, Palmer is expected to thrive in his new role, adding excitement and creativity to Chelsea’s attacking options.