Cole Palmer was the decisive figure as Chelsea began Xabi Alonso’s reign with a thrilling Premier League victory against London neighbours Fulham at Craven Cottage.
The 24-year-old created Joao Pedro’s opener after only 31 seconds before scoring the goal that ultimately settled an end-to-end contest. Palmer showed composure to finish through the legs of Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno and give Chelsea a winning start to the new campaign.
His performance was the outstanding individual display of the match, with Palmer proving a constant threat as Chelsea attempted to establish control in Alonso’s first competitive game as manager.
Chelsea’s record summer signing Morgan Rogers also marked his league debut with a goal, adding another positive note for the visitors. Rogers finished a move created by fellow debutant Maxence Lacroix, whose cutback presented him with the chance to score.
Despite those attacking highlights, Alonso’s introduction to the English top flight was anything but straightforward. Fulham produced a determined response and repeatedly exposed Chelsea’s defence in a match played at a relentless pace.
Teenage midfielder Josh King was particularly impressive for the home side. He restored parity during the first half with a powerful, fizzing effort that beat Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez at his near post.
King’s equaliser ensured Chelsea could not settle after their rapid start, while Fulham continued to threaten as both teams committed players forward. The visitors regained the lead through Palmer, but Fulham remained firmly in the contest.
Gonzalo Garcia, one of Fulham’s summer arrivals from Real Madrid, then scored his first goal for the club to give Alvaro Arbeloa’s team renewed hope of claiming a point. Garcia headed in from close range, bringing Fulham back within reach in a game that remained open until the closing stages.
Chelsea were able to withstand the late pressure and hold on for three points, completing a demanding opening-day victory at their neighbours’ home.
The result gives Alonso an immediate win at the start of his Chelsea tenure, although the nature of the match also highlighted the work still required to make his side more secure. Chelsea’s attacking quality was ultimately decisive, with Palmer’s contribution proving the difference between the teams.
The victory was Chelsea’s first in their opening Premier League match since the 2022-23 season. For Fulham, the performance offered encouragement despite the defeat, particularly through the displays of King and Garcia, but they were unable to convert their chances into a share of the points.
