Cole Palmer returned to Chelsea’s matchday squad for the first time since his toe injury in September. However, his return against Arsenal isn’t why the fans are talking about him. Instead, it is because of an incident involving another player who coincidentally made his return to Chelsea, this time playing for the opposition.
Noni Madueke returned to Stamford Bridge for the first time since moving to Arsenal earlier this summer. The speedy winger signed for Chelsea in 2023 in a £29million deal and spent two seasons there before a £52million move to London rivals Arsenal.
As Madueke came on as a 57th-minute substitute for Gabriel Martinelli, he was shown no love by fans or players upon his return.
He received a bruising reception upon his entry and was repeatedly booed anytime he touched the ball, to the amusement of Cole Palmer.
In footage going viral on X, the Chelsea talisman is seemingly approving the supporters to boo the former Chelsea winger by nodding in their direction as he warmed up on the sidelines.
Palmer’s reaction to Noni being subbed on to boos pic.twitter.com/Ov7T2j5cBY
— Max (@MaxLondonsFirst) November 30, 2025
During the game, Madueke also had to deal with Enzo and Cucurella, who were repeatedly shouting in his face and celebrating clearances after he was left on the ground.
While many fans, especially Arsenal fans, are furious with Palmer’s decision to approve the booing, others have noted that it was just banter between the two.
Palmer and Madueke have a long-term friendship as the two came up through the England youth ranks together. Moreover, Palmer has a very casual, laid-back personality as he loves to joke and banter at the expense of his friends.
The duo, as expected, were caught on camera involved in a wholesome exchange while warming up on the sidelines –
You have no friends man https://t.co/hSRKXikK1W pic.twitter.com/f9yyOldNlK
— . (@IsmaillIlIlI) December 1, 2025
Despite the hostilities during the match, Madueke was seen mixing with Chelsea players after the final whistle.
The Arsenal winger was embraced by captain Reece James while former teammates Wesley Fofana and Malo Gusto also came to greet him.
Both Arsenal and Chelsea went home with 1 point each as the Blues hung onto a 1-1 draw after having Moises Caicedo sent off in the first half. Manchester City’s 3-2 win over Leeds United during the weekend means the gap has
