Chelsea legend Joe Cole was full of praise for Cole Palmer after the 23-year-old inspired the Blues to a stunning 4-1 comeback victory over Real Betis in the Europa Conference League final.

Palmer delivered a masterclass in the second half, providing two exquisite assists that turned the game on its head after Chelsea trailed 1-0 at the break. The win not only sealed Enzo Maresca’s first trophy as Chelsea boss but also etched the club’s name into the history books — becoming the first team to win the Champions League, Europa League, Conference League and UEFA Super Cup.

Speaking on TNT Sports after the final whistle, Cole was effusive in his admiration:
“Cole Palmer, absolute genius. We don’t produce these players. They don’t fall off trees. He took the game by the scruff of the neck tonight and made it happen. There aren’t many players in world football who can do what he does.”

Palmer’s performance was another reminder of the former Manchester City starlet’s meteoric rise this season. Since joining Chelsea, he has quickly become the heartbeat of the team, and his impact in the final was a fitting climax to a brilliant debut campaign.

While some may downplay the Conference League’s prestige, Joe Cole — a Champions League finalist with Chelsea in 2008 — believes the triumph is an important milestone in this young side’s development.

“Chelsea is a huge club at this level,” he said. “And what I would say, for these young players and this team to win a trophy, it’s going to take them to the next level. But it’s not about that tonight. It’s about a group of young footballers, young coaches, coming together and achieving something. Don’t be looking down your noses at this.”

Chelsea fans will agree — with talents like Palmer leading the way, this trophy could be just the beginning of a new golden era at Stamford Bridge.