Cole Palmer stole the show as Xabi Alonso began his reign as Chelsea manager with a thrilling 4-2 Premier League win over neighbours Fulham at Craven Cottage.
Palmer was at the heart of Chelsea’s attacking play, setting up Joao Pedro for the opening goal after just 31 seconds before scoring the winner himself with a calm finish through Bernd Leno’s legs.
The 24-year-old looked almost unstoppable at times and gave Alonso an early glimpse of the attacking quality available to him.
Chelsea’s record summer signing Morgan Rogers also marked his Premier League debut for the club with a goal. He finished from a cutback by another debutant, Maxence Lacroix, to put Chelsea ahead again.
However, Fulham refused to make Alonso’s first league match in English football an easy one.
Teenage midfielder Josh King impressed throughout the game and brought Fulham level in the first half with a powerful shot that beat Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez at his near post.
Chelsea regained control through Palmer before Fulham reduced the deficit again when Gonzalo Garcia headed home from close range.
Garcia, who joined Fulham from Real Madrid during the summer, showed good movement and sharp finishing to score on his Premier League debut.
But Chelsea held on in an entertaining and open game to give Alonso a winning start and secure their first victory in the opening league match of a season since 2022-23.
## Palmer gives Alonso plenty to smile about
Chelsea’s attacking trio of Joao Pedro, Palmer and Rogers showed early signs of being a major threat this season.
Palmer, who had a difficult previous campaign because of fatigue and injuries, quickly reminded everyone of his ability to decide big matches.
His clever flick helped create Chelsea’s opening goal, while his second-half finish showed his calmness in front of goal.
There were also positive signs that Alonso’s tactical ideas are already having an effect, with Chelsea players making several smart positional changes during attacks.
However, Chelsea still showed weaknesses at the back.
Levi Colwill was booked after a lapse in concentration and later risked further trouble with a foul on King while already on a yellow card.
Sanchez also struggled. The goalkeeper made two poor distribution errors early in the match before being beaten at his near post by King’s equaliser.
Chelsea will need to improve defensively if they are to challenge for the biggest trophies, but their attacking quality proved enough to secure all three points.
## King and Garcia give Fulham hope
Despite the defeat, Fulham had plenty of positives to take from the match.
King, still only 19, was one of their best players and looked confident against Chelsea’s midfield. The England Under-21 international drove Fulham forward and nearly found a late equaliser when he dragged an effort wide.
Garcia also made an impressive start to life in England. The former Real Madrid player showed good movement and finishing ability to score his first goal for Fulham.
He became the first player to score on his Premier League debut for Fulham since Chris David against Crystal Palace in May 2014.
Fulham will be disappointed to lose the London derby, but Alonso will be the happier manager after Chelsea’s attacking stars produced enough quality to begin the new era with victory.
