Alonso: More to come from in-form Cole Palmer

Xabi Alonso has expressed confidence that Cole Palmer can reach even greater heights this season, with the Chelsea attacker already showing sharp form after a summer rest.

Palmer missed the FIFA World Cup and used the break to recover from an injury-disrupted 2025/26 campaign. He has since scored four goals and registered two assists in the early weeks of the new season.

'I think there's some more to come from Cole,' said Alonso. 'I'm very happy with Cole. The way he has prepared since the first day of pre-season, he's been there. He has shown this desire to enjoy his game.'

Alonso pointed to Palmer's mindset as the key driver of his performances. 'What he wants is to enjoy his game, to have this good feeling on the pitch, to have this connection with players around. If he gets that, the rest will come. England will come, winning more games will come.'

The Chelsea head coach, who has been in charge for two months, said he is still learning about his No.10 but has already identified a standout quality. 'Cole is a special man,' Alonso said. 'Day by day I get to know the players better, and I get to know Cole better, and Cole gets to know me better. It's about having connection, having contact.'