Chelsea Fans Criticize Cole Palmer After Interaction With Kobbie Mainoo Following Substitution
Chelsea fans were left frustrated with Cole Palmer after noticing his reaction and brief exchange with Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo during Saturday’s Premier League clash at Old Trafford.
The highly-anticipated fixture between Manchester United and Chelsea carried huge weight, with both sides chasing a potential Champions League spot for next season. However, Enzo Maresca’s men got off to a nightmare start when goalkeeper Robert Sánchez was sent off inside the opening five minutes. United captain Bruno Fernandes then capitalized less than 10 minutes later, putting the Red Devils ahead early.
Palmer’s evening also ended in disappointment. The forward was substituted early for Andrey Santos and, clearly upset, threw something to the ground in frustration as he walked off the pitch. Moments later, cameras spotted him in conversation with Mainoo, his England teammate, sparking debate among fans online.
Some supporters suggested Palmer was explaining that he had suffered a groin issue, pointing out his gestures on the touchline. One fan wrote on X: “I believe Palmer told Mainoo he has a groin injury from reading lips and he pointed to his groin area.” Another added: “Cole Palmer has ice on his groin. His sub was injury related.”
But not everyone was convinced. A section of Chelsea fans were critical of Palmer’s demeanor, with one commenting: “I know they’re mates, but Palmer’s little smirk with Mainoo as he walks off feels like a slap in the face to those who travelled up there today.”
Palmer’s reaction has divided opinion, with Chelsea supporters now anxiously awaiting updates on his fitness ahead of the club’s next fixtures.