Chelsea’s Cole Palmer confesses he enjoys returning to play at Old Trafford, having grown up as a Manchester United fan who idolized Wayne Rooney

Chelsea Star Cole Palmer Admits Playing at Old Trafford Feels ‘Special’ as Boyhood Man Utd Fan and Rooney Admirer

Chelsea playmaker Cole Palmer has revealed his emotional connection to Old Trafford, admitting that stepping onto the pitch at Manchester United’s iconic stadium brings back childhood memories rooted in admiration, dreams, and footballing idols.

Now one of Chelsea’s brightest talents, Palmer confessed that returning to Manchester as an opposing player feels surreal. Having grown up supporting Manchester United, the England international says Old Trafford still carries a personal significance despite his professional allegiance now lying in London.

The midfielder, who emerged through Manchester City’s youth ranks before making the high-profile move to Stamford Bridge, was candid about his love for the game being shaped by Manchester United legends — particularly Wayne Rooney, the club’s all-time leading scorer and former captain.

Palmer revealed that Rooney’s fiery presence, goal-scoring flair, and sheer determination left a lasting impression on him as a boy. He would often watch United matches on television, dream about donning the red shirt, and mimic Rooney’s moves in local parks around Wythenshawe, Manchester — just miles from Old Trafford itself.

Speaking in a recent interview, Palmer said, “Old Trafford was the place every kid in Manchester talked about. Growing up, I looked up to Wayne Rooney — the way he played, the passion he had. It was inspiring.”

Despite his strong personal ties to the club, Palmer’s career took a different route when he joined Manchester City’s academy, eventually breaking into Pep Guardiola’s squad before securing regular first-team football at Chelsea. Still, his affection for Old Trafford hasn’t faded.

“Playing there now as a Chelsea player is obviously different, but it’s always special. There’s a certain buzz when I walk out there. It’s a stadium I grew up watching every week,” he said.

Palmer’s move to Chelsea has proven to be a turning point in his career. Given more responsibility and consistent minutes, he has flourished in West London, becoming one of the club’s key figures and a fan favorite for his composure, creativity, and eye for goal.

Yet, when Chelsea faces Manchester United, Palmer admits there’s a mixture of nostalgia and competitive fire. “You don’t forget your roots,” he added. “But when the whistle blows, it’s about the team I play for now. I want to win — whether it’s Old Trafford or anywhere else.”

Fans of both clubs have found Palmer’s story compelling — a player who once idolised United’s icons, now carving his own path elsewhere. United supporters admire his honesty, while Chelsea fans respect the professionalism and maturity he brings to high-pressure games.

There’s a poetic tension in Palmer’s journey: once a Red at heart, now wearing blue with pride, yet carrying memories of childhood loyalty. It’s a reminder of how footballers, like fans, are shaped by the clubs and players they loved growing up — even when their careers take them down a different road.

Palmer insists his past doesn’t distract him from the present. “I know where my focus is. Chelsea gave me the platform to grow and show what I can do consistently. I’m grateful for that.”

Though some rival fans may question whether such admissions indicate divided loyalties, Palmer’s performances speak louder. He’s already delivered match-winning moments in a Chelsea shirt, including against top Premier League sides, and continues to shine under pressure.

As Chelsea prepares for another season of high expectations and potential resurgence, Palmer is expected to play a crucial role in their midfield and attacking plans. His leadership on the pitch, despite his young age, has been widely praised by teammates and coaching staff.

Still, the emotional pull of returning to Old Trafford will likely never disappear for Palmer. It’s the place where football dreams began — even if the dream itself took a different form.

The story of Cole Palmer is one that resonates with many in modern football — a talented local lad who dared to dream, followed the opportunities in front of him, and never forgot where it all started.

Next time he walks out at Old Trafford in a Chelsea shirt, the memories may flood back — but there’ll be no hesitation in trying to spoil the party for his boyhood club.

For Palmer, it’s come full circle — and he’s ready to write new chapters of his story, wherever the pitch may be.