Former Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger has heaped praise on Chelsea’s rising stars, Nicolas Jackson and Cole Palmer, while highlighting the immense talent at manager Enzo Maresca’s disposal. Rudiger, now with Real Madrid, believes Chelsea is heading in the right direction after their recent overhaul.
Maresca took charge of Chelsea following Mauricio Pochettino’s departure, and the team has shown signs of stability after years of inconsistency. Chelsea’s summer spending spree, which totaled around £220 million, has brought in key players who have helped the team rise to fourth in the Premier League table.
Rudiger, who still follows Chelsea’s progress closely, is impressed with the depth and quality of the current squad. “There is a hell of a lot of talent, like really a hell of a lot of talent,” Rudiger said. “The players they have… wow, some teams wish they could spend that amount of money and have these kinds of players.”
The German defender singled out Nicolas Jackson, who has found form after a difficult debut season in England. Jackson has scored four goals in his first six Premier League matches this season, bouncing back from his struggles last year. “I’m very happy especially for Nicolas Jackson, that he is getting his goals now,” Rudiger said. “His overall game is very, very good.”
Rudiger also praised Cole Palmer, who joined Chelsea from Manchester United for £42.5 million. Initially unsure about Palmer’s move, Rudiger admitted he was pleasantly surprised by the young midfielder’s performances. Palmer has been a standout player, becoming the first in Premier League history to score four first-half goals in a recent 4-2 win against Brighton. “He surprised me a lot,” Rudiger said. “He’s a really, really good player.”
Rudiger left Chelsea in 2022 to join Real Madrid, but he holds no regrets about his decision. Reflecting on his move, Rudiger said, “Real Madrid doesn’t knock often on your door in your career, and I felt like I was ready for that step.”
Chelsea fans can take heart from Rudiger’s words, as the former Blues defender believes the club is in a strong position with a talented squad and a bright future ahead.
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