Cole Palmer responded to those criticizing Chelsea with a strong performance that led the team to victory in the Club World Cup final in New York.
The young England player scored two impressive goals and assisted another for Joao Pedro as Chelsea secured a remarkable 3-0 win over Paris St Germain, the Champions League title holders, at the MetLife Stadium.
The win not only brought the club a substantial prize of over £90 million but also showcased the tactical prowess of manager Enzo Maresca.
Speaking about the team's progress under the Italian coach, Palmer told DAZN: “He’s creating something special, something significant with a young squad.
“There has been a lot of talk about us this season, but I believe we are moving in the right direction.”
Reflecting on the match, Palmer said: “It’s an amazing feeling, especially because we were underestimated before the game. We were aware of that and it feels good to go out there, put up a fight against a top team, and come out victorious.
“The manager had a brilliant game plan. He identified where the opportunities would arise, tried to set me free as much as possible, and I just had to deliver and score goals.”
Palmer, who scored twice and provided an assist in just 21 minutes of the first half, was also instrumental in Chelsea's victory over Real Betis in the Europa Conference League final in May.
Maresca praised Palmer, stating: “These are the moments when we need Cole to shine – in big games and critical moments – and once again he demonstrated his quality.”
While the tournament itself faced criticism and controversy, Maresca emphasized the importance and prestige it brings to the club.
In addition to the significant financial reward, Chelsea will have the honor of wearing a badge on their jerseys confirming their status as world champions for the next four years.
Maresca expressed: “I believe this competition will gain as much significance as the Champions League, and we hold it in high regard like a Champions League victory.
“It was an exceptional effort from the team and all the players. I am particularly pleased for them as they deserve this moment.
“If you had told me we would be leading 3-0 at halftime, I wouldn't have expected it, but we were prepared to fight and we recognized the competitiveness of our squad against skilled teams.”
PSG's frustration was evident as Joao Neves was shown a red card for pulling Marc Cucurella's hair five minutes before the final whistle.
Tempers flared further as altercations broke out post-match, involving PSG manager Luis Enrique in a scuffle that ended with Pedro on the ground.
Enrique commented: “I saw Maresca pushing others aside and we had to separate all the players.
“This is a situation we should all avoid. My intention was to separate the players to prevent the situation from escalating.”