The wait for the start of the 2024/25 season is nearly over for Blues supporters, as we prepare to begin our campaign at home against Premier League champions Manchester City this afternoon.

For Cole Palmer, it is another chance to impress against his former club, having netted an injury-time equaliser in a thrilling 4-4 draw when City came to Stamford Bridge last season.

That was just the tip of the iceberg in a brilliant first year at Chelsea for Palmer, though, as he racked up 25 goals and 19 assists for the Blues, on his way to being voted our Player of the Year. However, he believes there is plenty more to come from in 2024/25.

‘There’s always room for improvement. I know it sounds cliched, but I think there is,’ said Cole, who recently signed a contract extension with Chelsea until 2033.

‘So I’ll just try to maintain it, because if I do maintain it then it won’t be a bad season!’

Another reason Palmer is hopeful for more success this season is his reunion with new Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca, who he won silverware alongside during their time working together at today’s opponents Man City.

‘We’ve got an amazing coach, so it’s important to listen to the coach. He will only help me get better and improve my game. So if I listen to him and work hard, I don’t see why this season can’t be even better.

‘I’ve only been with him about a week or two here after the Euros, but I knew him from City. He was my manager in the Under-21s at City, where we won the league together. Then he was Pep’s assistant and now he’s here.

‘He’s a great guy as well. You can speak to him, you can ask him whatever. I think that helps you on the pitch massively.’