Palmer, 21, has been at City since the age of six, climbing through the academy ranks to become a first-team option and helping the Blues win the treble last season. He leaves City having helped them win the FA Youth Cup, a number of academy titles, two Premier League titles, the Champions League, Carabao Cup, FA Cup and UEFA Super Cup.
Having joined Chelsea, Palmer said their young squad and exciting project attracted him to Stamford Bridge, but first sent an emotional farewell message to City on Instagram.
“Manchester City has been a part of my life for 15 years and its all Ive ever known since the age of 6,” he wrote. “I have been very lucky to work with some amazing people along the way.
“To the coaches the staff, the physios and to all the people behind the scenes. I am very grateful and just want to thank you for helping me become who I am today. Also I would like to thank my teammates for the most amazing memories we created on and off the pitch together. I will never forget them, it was an honour to play with you all and I wish you all the best of luck.
“Thank you to Pep Guardiola and his staff for the opportunities to play for this amazing club and giving me the memories only a small few can ever dream of, I will be forever grateful.”Finally to the fans, thanks for all the support you have shown me as one of your own. [City] will always hold a special place in my heart. All the best. Cole.”
He told City&aposs website: It doesnt feel that long ago that I was Under-18 captain and I leave now having been involved in the Treble-winning squad and the UEFA Super Cup triumph too, incredible achievements I was so grateful to be a part of.
Its been an amazing journey for me and Ive enjoyed every single step. The next step is leaving the football club. I leave with many happy memories and wish everyone at City the very best for the future.
Speaking to Chelsea&aposs club media after sealing his move, Palmer said: “Ive joined Chelsea because the project here sounds good and because of the platform I will have to try to showcase my talents. It is a young and hungry squad and, hopefully, we can do something special here.
“I know Im young, the 21-year-old says, but Ive been in a winning changing room. I know what it takes.”
Palmer also spoke of his excitement at linking up with former City teammates Raheem Sterling – who he had a close relationship with at the Etihad – and fellow academy graduate Romeo Lavia. He also said he looked forward to linking up with England youth teammates Levi Colwill and Noni Madueke.
“Raz has always looked after me, so I appreciate him,” he said. “He was one when I was coming through at Man City who put his arm around me. That was amazing for me, for someone of his pedigree and international experience to do that.
“He saw the potential I had. He saw what I was doing in training. We started talking a bit more. I was asking him questions all the time and from there we have always kept in contact. Ive played with him in games a few times, not loads, and now Ive developed my game a bit more, hopefully we can do some good stuff together.
“And dont forget Romeo. Romeo is my guy. We had a couple of great years together at City. Its really nice to be joining a new club knowing Ive got four really good mates already here, ready to help me settle in and adapt. Knowing them helped me make the decision to come.”
