Cole Palmerrecently revealed his top four players of all time, featuring former Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Manchester United legends on his list.
A 23-year-old is certainly one of the top players globally at the moment, but what about the athletes he admired during his childhood?
During an interview with Sports Direct, these were the four top players that Palmer listed in sequence.
4. Cristiano Ronaldo
Being a lifelong Man United supporter, it’s not surprising that CR7 was one of his role models.
When Ronaldo claimed the Ballon d’Or while playing for United in 2008, Palmer would have been just six years old, highlighting how long he has been involved in the sport.
Palmer never had the opportunity to discuss the pitch with Ronaldo, but he nearly did in October 2022.
Both Palmer and Ronaldo were sitting on the bench during the Manchester derby, but only Palmer was able to enter the game as City secured a 6-3 victory.
3. Wayne Rooney
Continuing with the United theme, Palmer selected Rooney as his third top player of all time.
“When I return to the stadium [Old Trafford], it’s pleasant since I used to attend games there,” Palmer mentioned in another interview.
Rooney [was my idol]. I was a fan of United and he was the top player.
Having appeared on the cover of FIFA and becoming a key player for England over many years, it’s understandable that Rooney inspired the dreams of numerous children who came of age in the 2000s.
By the time Rooney departed from United in 2017, Palmer would have been 15 years old and was on the path to becoming a professional.
2. Neymar
The Brazilian forward enchanted young fans in a way that very few players have ever managed to do.
From his brilliant initial years at Santos to his top form with Barcelona and PSG, Neymar was a formidable player during his prime.
Regarding raw natural talent, the 33-year-old should definitely be considered among the greatest players to have ever graced the sport.
Palmer has never had the opportunity to face Neymar, and since he is currently in Brazil with Santos, it appears improbable they will do so unless they encounter each other at the international level.
1. Lionel Messi
Who else?
When previously asked to choose between Messi and Ronaldo, Palmer has consistently supported the Inter Miami player, whom he called the greatest of all time.
He recently admitted that Messi’s influence was a key factor in his desire to wear the number 10 jersey at Chelsea.
“I have worn number ten throughout my life since childhood, and I simply like the number,” Palmer said back in June.
Messi, the big one [I looked up to], and Rooney, and players similar to them. It’s just an iconic number.
Palmer has never faced Messi on the field, but he had a prime view of him in 2021 while sitting on the bench for Man City during their Champions League match against PSG.
READ NEXT: Son Heung-min reveals his top five all-time favorite players: Ronaldo above Messi…
jasdooit 
Leave a comment