Chelsea supporters have been incredibly lucky to watch some sensational players over the years, but certain ones strike a special attachment with them more than others.
There’s no doubt that Juan Mata fits into the category of a serious fan favourite at Stamford Bridge.
The 35-year-old attacking midfielder, who now plays in Japan for Vissel Kobe, lit up the Bridge during his time in Chelsea colours between 2011-14.
In our view, the Blues never really found a like-for-like replacement for him. He was a left-footed playmaker who could unlock the door in the final third with a piece of magic, whether that’s a perfectly weighted pass or shot on goal.
From what we’ve seen in the early stages of the season, Cole Palmer could finally be his successor at Chelsea.
We’re sticking our neck on the line here by comparing Chelsea’s youngster to one of the club’s best creators from the past decade. However, there’s been so much to love about his start in West London.
Palmer cost the Blues £40million (Sky Sports) to sign from Manchester City in the summer, which certainly raised a few eyebrows at the time.
Thankfully, he’s got off to a quick start at his new home and looks settled in Mauricio Pochettino’s line-up already.
We know Palmer is a skilful attacker who’s effective as a right-winger or central attacking playmaker, which certainly has shades of Mata in his prime.
It’s so exciting that he’s aged just 21, too!
Chelsea head coach Pochettino recently explained he’s using Palmer in a fluid position where he’s allowed the freedom to roam between the lines, as quoted by the club’s official YouTube account.
There’s certainly a pattern emerging where the Blues want to get the ball into Palmer’s feet in dangerous attacking pockets.
He’s got a couple of assists in his opening six appearances for the club. He’s been robbed of at least a couple more, too!
Only time will tell if Palmer comparisons to Mata were justified. We’re pretty confident that Chelsea have a new creative chief, though.
