Overview

• Palmer set up goals for Enzo Fernandez and Nicolas Jackson to overturn a 1-0 deficit and power Chelsea to a 4-1 win over Real Betis in the Conference League final.
• The victory made Chelsea the first club to hold every major European trophy after adding the Conference League to their Champions League and Europa League titles.
• His second-half masterclass earned him Man of the Match honours and drew praise from former star Joe Cole, who likened Palmer’s influence to that of Lionel Messi.
• In post-match interviews Palmer’s trademark deadpan humor stood out when he joked “I’ve got no pockets” as he carried his trophy in his shorts and playfully suggested Tosin Adarabioyo deserved the Player of the Tournament award.
• Gianfranco Zola warned that Palmer’s rising profile will see opponents mark him more tightly, underscoring the need for him to adapt as Chelsea’s attacking focal point.