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Cole Palmer was the undeniable star of the show as Chelsea began the new season with a 3-2 win away at Fulham, in a match that also marked Xabi Alonso's first Premier League fixture as head coach. Palmer, who featured on the Ballon d'Or shortlist in both 2024 (25th) and 2025 (8th), added to a bright start for Chelsea's front line alongside Joao Pedro and Morgan Rogers.
Instant Impact and Midfield Mastery
It took just 31 seconds for the former Ballon d'Or Nominee to leave his mark on the new campaign. Capitalizing on a turnover high up the pitch after Maxence Lacroix's midfield-splitting header, Palmer swiftly unpicked the Fulham defense to set up Joao Pedro for an emphatic opening goal.
Fulham responded in the 23rd minute when Joshua King beat Robert Sanchez at his near post, but Chelsea restored their lead before half-time through Morgan Rogers, who latched onto a Lacroix cross at the back post in the 41st minute.
Palmer Seals the Advantage
Palmer took center stage early in the second half. In the 49th minute, Joao Pedro returned the favor, driving forward and teeing up Palmer to slot home Chelsea's third goal with clinical precision.
Although Gonzalo Garcia pulled one back for Alvaro Arbeloa's side in the 54th minute, Palmer's creative brilliance kept Fulham on the back foot. Operating with complete freedom, the England international generated key opportunities throughout his 83 minutes on the pitch before being replaced by Estevao after pulling up mid-dribble.
Chelsea secured all three points to kick off the 2026/27 Premier League season on a winning note, driven by Palmer's dominant Player of the Match performance.
