Fast-forward to the present day, and Palmer is arguably the poster boy of Stamford Bridge and worth well in excess of double what Chelsea paid. Before the 2024-25 season, City secured the services of Ryan McAidoo from Chelsea's academy - a player with explosive speed and the versatility to operate across the front line. Having trained with the first team frequently this season, McAidoo's real breakthrough moment came on Saturday. The perfect summary of the talent that got away from Chelsea perhaps came after the match, as Pep Lijnders told reporters, "He wants the ball constantly. Find more from Freddie Pye at City Xtra, external

Source: BBC January 13, 2026 08:48 UTC