Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has tipped attacker Cole Palmer to deliver a standout performance in the upcoming Premier League season. The 24-year-old enters the campaign looking to bounce back from a challenging 2025-26 term, during which he recorded 11 goals and three assists across 34 appearances. His league contribution totaled 10 goals in 26 matches, a period that saw the Blues finish 10th and miss out on European qualification.
Alonso, who took charge at Stamford Bridge this summer, believes the forward is poised for a resurgence. Ahead of Monday’s season opener against Fulham on August 24, the Spanish coach stated, “He will have a great season.” The club has bolstered its squad during the current transfer window with the additions of Morgan Rogers, Maxence Lacroix, and Jordan Henderson to support the new tactical direction.
Chelsea’s recent history at Craven Cottage is mixed. Their last Premier League visit to Fulham resulted in a 2-1 defeat, a match marked by Marc Cucurella’s 22nd-minute red card. Fulham took the lead through Raul Jimenez early in the second half before Liam Delap equalized for the 10-man Blues. However, Harry Wilson secured the win for the hosts with an 81st-minute strike.
Despite that setback, Chelsea previously enjoyed success against the Cottagers earlier that season, securing a 2-0 victory at Stamford Bridge. That win featured a goal from Joao Pedro and a second-half penalty converted by 2022 FIFA World Cup winner Enzo Fernandez. Alonso will look to replicate that level of performance as he begins his tenure in the Premier League. The report also notes that palmer, 24, is coming off a lean 2025-26 campaign, striking 11 times and assisting thrice in 34 games across competitions. The report also notes that the Spaniard said ahead of the trip to Craven Cottage (as per Daily Mail ).
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