What a game for Cole Palmer! Four goals in the first half, and it could have been more. A super exciting talent, this was a game where, as a player, you feel like you are king of the world—unstoppable. Here, we look at Palmer's background and break down one of the four goals for coaching purposes. Enjoy all four in the video clip and let us know which one is your favourite!
Palmer's Football Journey
Cole Palmer's early football journey is rooted in his upbringing in Wythenshawe, Manchester. Born on May 6, 2002, he joined Manchester City's academy at the age of six, choosing them over other clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool for the opportunity to play regular matches.
Concerns about his size led some academy coaches to consider releasing him at 16. However, academy director Jason Wilcox recognized his potential and advocated for his retention, leading to Palmer signing a professional contract at City.
Palmer's dedication and resilience were evident as he progressed through the academy ranks. He captained Manchester City's under-18 team during the 2019–20 season, showcasing leadership and skill. His performances at the youth level earned him international recognition, representing England across various youth levels, including under-16, under-17, under-18, and under-21 teams.
A notable moment in his youth career came during the 2019–20 season when he scored 15 goals in 14 games in the Premier League's Under-18 league. Palmer's perseverance paid off as he progressed through Manchester City's ranks, making his senior debut in 2020. Seeking more playing time, he transferred to Chelsea in 2023 for £40 million and established himself firmly in the England squad.
What Players/Managers Say About Him
Pep Guardiola:
"I didn't have any doubts about his quality. The way he's playing—he’s a star player."
Enzo Maresca:
"The best thing is the way he is today is exactly how he was three or four years ago. Goals, assists, best player of the Premier League—this doesn't change the way he is."
Gianfranco Zola:
"He could compete for the Ballon d'Or if he continues to improve under Maresca's guidance."
First-Person Breakdown of Goal #4 in His Record-Breaking Game vs. Brighton (2024)
41 minutes gone in the first half. Hat-trick in the bag. What a day. We have good possession 25 yards out, inside the left channel. I drift behind the centre-forward, Jackson, to the edge of the box. I position myself behind their midfielder, Wieffer, just in the hole. Let’s see what happens.
Sancho has the ball. There's no pressure on him from midfielder Baleba, who's standing off. Sancho's looking for an option. The central defender, Webster, on the edge of the box, is getting drawn toward the ball to help cover Baleba. Nice! That’s leaving space behind him inside the box on the left. No one is picking me up. Let’s go! I sprint fast forward, diagonally behind Webster, into the left side of the penalty area.
I point to Sancho where I want the ball. He sees it. Sancho passes into the space behind Webster. The weight on the pass is perfect, running smoothly along the grass into the box. I’m in behind Webster, the last defender. One quick look to see where the keeper is. He’s on the angle—central. Near or far post strikes are the options. Decision made: I’m going to hit the near post with power.
I reach the ball, adjust my feet, plant my right foot next to the ball for balance, and strike hard with my toe pointed down, connecting with my laces. My body leans forward over the ball to keep it low. Bang! It rockets past the keeper. It’s in! That’s 4!
Summary
This is a clinical goal—a goal where there is minimal thought, just instinct, vision to see the run, and powerful execution on the finish. Forward runs behind defenders are so exciting as a player. It’s a game of cat and mouse, like a game of chess. How can I outwit my opponent? If I can get behind them, their defence is gone. Midfielders, as in this case, can be left unmarked. The key is in the timing and speed of the run. Palmer’s point to Sancho about where he wanted the ball is gold too.
Practice
Run Drill:
Place a cone at the centre D on the edge of the box and another cone five yards to the left. Have a teammate with a few footballs positioned 10 yards back from the left cone. Start behind the center cone. On the shout of “Go,” sprint diagonally behind the left cone while your partner passes into the space ahead.
Shooting Drill:
Work on striking the ball low and hard into the near or far post. Focus on placing your standing foot slightly ahead of the ball as you swing through with your shooting foot. Keep your toe down and connect with your laces. Ensure your body is leaning forward over the ball.
Practice on both sides of the box and with both feet.
One2Pro:
The use of video with a coach review is fantastic for honing skills and performance. In our One2Pro online coaching app, "Techniques of the Stars" are broken down step-by-step for players to follow and practice.
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Be the One!
Aaron Tighe
Founder, One2Pro
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