Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior has firmly brushed aside speculation linking Cole Palmer with a sensational move to Manchester United, insisting the reports are “unrealistic” and have no basis in truth, MySportDab Reports.
The rumours emerged ahead of Chelsea’s crucial Champions League clash against Napoli at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, where a victory would guarantee the Blues a place in the competition’s top eight.
Talk of Palmer being unsettled at Stamford Bridge and open to a move—reportedly to boyhood club Manchester United—has threatened to overshadow preparations for the trip to Italy.
Rosenior was unequivocal when asked about the reports, stressing there was no reason to even entertain the discussion. The Chelsea boss revealed he has held several conversations with Palmer and reiterated that the England international is fully committed to the club.
Despite enjoying a brilliant 2024–25 campaign, during which he registered 26 goal contributions in 46 appearances across all competitions, Palmer has endured a more stop-start season this term.
Minor injury issues have limited the 23-year-old to 19 appearances, although he has still managed eight goals and two assists. He has travelled with the squad to Naples after missing the weekend’s 3–1 Premier League win at Crystal Palace.
Rosenior has made an impressive start since replacing Enzo Maresca, winning four of his first five matches in charge. In his maiden European fixture, Chelsea recorded a Champions League-high 94.5% pass completion against Pafos, underlining the team’s growing control and confidence.
Attention now turns to Napoli, who sit 25th in the 36-team standings and require a win to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Despite a recent 3–0 Serie A defeat to Juventus, Antonio Conte’s side boast an outstanding home record in the Champions League, having lost just once in their last 20 matches.
Rosenior acknowledged the challenge ahead but remains focused, insisting the speculation surrounding Palmer will not distract from Chelsea’s plans on a demanding European night.
