Cole Palmer has spoken of his profound gratitude to centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo, his rock during a difficult time on and off the pitch. The Blues forward, whose fortunes have also improved in recent weeks, specifically mentioned, Adarabioyo’s presence during a tough stretch earlier this year.
Cole Palmer Says: ‘That’s My Boy… He Helped Me a Lot’
It was following his first open‑play goal since January in Chelsea’s 2–1 Club World Cup final win over Palmeiras that Palmer sprinted directly to Adarabioyo on the bench.
Palmer and Adarabioyo are way back: Both grew up in Manchester City’s academy system, and the two have been close friends for years. That time-honored friendship has translated, rather beautifully, to Stamford Bridge. Despite being a new figure, Tosin wielded an immediate impact in the dressing room – Palmer mentioned his support has helped keep his head strong during the down times.
Even off-camera, the two often appear side by side on the training pitch and during travel—teammates regularly highlight their strong friendship. The relationship obviously goes far beyond football—Adarabioyo has been a key emotional driver behind Palmer’s rapid ascent within a high-pressure environment.
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The timing of the compliment is crucial. As Maresca’s team ready themselves for their Club World Cup semi‑final against Fluminense, the increasing togetherness and off‑pitch relationships are as important as any tactical playbook.
Palmer’s admiration represents so much more than locker room fellowship—it is a testament to the man who helped him endure and return to true form. And even when he wasn’t scoring, he had teammates who could pick him up.
And for a player of Palmer’s quality, that quiet verticality off the ball — and from a deeper position on the field — embodied in Adarabioyo, might just be the secret sauce Chelsea need this season.
