Joe Cole is impressed by the ‘brilliance’ of Cole Palmer after the Blues star shines in the UEFA Conference League final.

Cole Palmer was back to his best as Chelsea secured their first piece of silverware under Enzo Maresca. TNT Sports’ Joe Cole did not hesitate to put the Blues maestro’s performance on par with football legend Lionel Messi.

Chelsea triumphed over Real Betis with a resounding 4-1 victory in the UEFA Conference League final, with a remarkable comeback led by Palmer’s midfield brilliance.

“It’s a privilege to watch this kid play football,” Cole exclaimed. “I’m not just saying Chelsea fans, I’m saying England fans. If Lionel Messi performed something like this on a stage like this, the world stops.”

Palmer’s influence was undeniable as he delivered two exquisite assists in quick succession, setting up Enzo Fernandez and Nicolas Jackson to score within five minutes, turning the tide in Chelsea’s favour.

“That man there, Cole Palmer, absolute genius,” Cole continued. “We don’t produce these players; they don’t fall off trees. He took the game by the scruff of the neck tonight.”

Despite a lacklustre first half from Chelsea, where Betis took the lead through Abde Ezzalzouli’s ninth-minute goal, the introduction of Reece James at half-time proved pivotal.

“They were outstanding; they more than played their part in this final,” Cole remarked about Betis. “But they were outgunned. Chelsea is a huge club. For these young players and this team to win a trophy, it’s gonna take them to the next level.”

Cole emphasised the significance of the victory, stating, “It’s about a group of young footballers, young coaches coming together and achieving something. Don’t be looking down your nose at this. If you’re hearing the stadium, hearing this atmosphere, seeing the faces of the people involved, this is what you play football for – for nights like these, and they thoroughly deserve it.”

After the match, Palmer reflected on the victory with his trademark humility, simply stating, “It’s a great feeling.” He added, “I just felt like I was trying to find the space as the game got going.”

This triumph marks a historic achievement for Chelsea, completing a European treble as they became the only side in history to win the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, and now the Conference League.

“To be the only team in history, it’s a great feeling,” Palmer concluded candidly.