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Cole Palmer and Reece James revealed their surprise and confusion after Donald Trump unexpectedly remained on stage during Chelsea’s Club World Cup trophy lift.
Chelsea’s 3-0 triumph over Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup final was not just memorable for the goals and glory, it also included an unexpected moment involving U.S. President Donald Trump that left some players visibly puzzled on the podium.
Fresh off scoring a brace in the final, Cole Palmer appeared taken aback when he noticed Trump still standing on stage during Chelsea’s trophy celebrations.
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Palmer and James Taken Aback by Trump
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Speaking to Sky Sports, Palmer admitted, “We knew he was going to be on the stage but I didn't know he was going to be on the stage when we lift the trophy, so I was a bit confused.”
Reece James, Chelsea’s captain, echoed Palmer’s sentiments, saying he too expected the guest of honor to step aside before the crowning moment.
“They told me he was going to exit the stage. I thought he would exit but he wanted to stay.”
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Trump’s presence at the final, reportedly as a guest of tournament organizers and select club stakeholders, had already raised eyebrows before kickoff.
However, his decision to remain on stage for the trophy lift led to an awkward dynamic during what is typically an intimate team celebration.
Photos and video clips of FIFA president Gino Infantino trying to whisk him away quickly made rounds on social media, with some fans amused and others baffled by the optics.
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Chelsea Players Focus on the Win
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Despite the distraction, Chelsea players maintained composure and celebrated their global title with pride.
Palmer and James both emphasized that the moment did not take away from the achievement but added a surreal twist to an otherwise perfect night in club history.
As for Trump, he applauded the team and offered brief congratulatory remarks, but has not issued a statement regarding his prolonged presence on the stage.
Chelsea’s Club World Cup win marked another milestone in the club’s resurgence, powered by a new generation of stars like Palmer, and a steady leadership presence in James.
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