Where does Cole Palmer rank amongst Chelsea's best-ever no10?

Cole Palmer has started his Stamford career on an impressive note, especially considering he only truly broke into a consistent starting role in the 2023/2024 season and then inherited the iconic No. 10 shirt for the 2024/2025 season.

While it's still early in his tenure with the No. 10, his impact has been impressive that he's already being talked about in the conversation for Chelsea's best-ever players to wear the shirt.

In his debut season (2023/2024), he was Chelsea's top scorer and a major creative force. He continued that form into the 2024/2025 season, scoring 15 Premier League goals and contributing to goals and assists across all competitions.

His goal contributions rate (goals + assists per minute) in his Chelsea career is statistically better than even Frank Lampard's or Eden Hazard's at similar stages.

Palmer has repeatedly delivered in important moments, including hat-tricks and game-changing goals.

His performances have been instrumental in Chelsea's successes, including the Club World Cup win where he was named the Best Player. While often deployed as a No. 10, he can also play effectively on the right wing. His vision, dribbling, composure, and penalty-taking ability make him a complete attacking threat.

Chelsea have had a number of talented players wear the No. 10 shirt in the Premier League era.

Some of the most notable include

Undoubtedly the gold standard for Chelsea's No. 10 in the modern era. Hazard was a generational talent, consistently delivering world-class performances, winning multiple Premier League titles, and being the focal point of Chelsea's attack for years.

He finished his time with the side with 110 goals and 88 assists to his name in 352 appearances.

A fan favorite who had a fantastic impact in his relatively short time with the No. 10.

He was integral to Chelsea's Champions League and Europa League triumphs.

This attacking midfielder was a phenomenal playmaker, racking up an impressive 53 assists in just 135 appearances for the English side.

He also chipped in with 33 goals. Despite being underrated, he received numerous accolades, including: Back-to-back Team Player of the Year awards, Players' Player of the Year in 2013 and PFA Team of the Year selection.

His impressive stats and awards cement his status as one of the top players of the 2010s.

A highly skillful and dynamic player who was a key part of Mourinho's early Chelsea teams, winning multiple Premier League titles.

Cole had a remarkable stint with the Blues, making 282 appearances across all competitions. He scored 39 goals and provided 47 assists, showcasing his skill and consistency.

A hardworking and creative winger who wore the No. 10 in his final season, showcasing strong individual performances.

It's important to acknowledge that Eden Hazard remains the undisputed king of Chelsea's No. 10s due to his longevity of world-class performances and the silverware he helped the club win.

However, based on his individual performance and impact in his first 1.5 seasons (including the 2024/2025 season where he took the No. 10), Cole Palmer is already firmly in the conversation for the top 3-5 Chelsea No. 10s in the Premier League era.