Cole Palmer delivered a sparkling performance as Chelsea began Xabi Alonso’s reign with a thrilling victory over neighbours Fulham at Craven Cottage.
The 24-year-old was at the heart of Chelsea’s attacking display, creating Joao Pedro’s opener before scoring the decisive goal himself. New signing Morgan Rogers also found the net on his Premier League debut as the visitors overcame a spirited Fulham side.
Chelsea made a dream start, taking the lead after only 31 seconds. Palmer’s clever flick released Joao Pedro, who finished the move to give Alonso an immediate reason to celebrate.
Fulham, however, quickly showed they would not allow their London rivals to dominate. Teenager Josh King, one of the home side’s brightest performers, drew them level with a powerful effort that beat Robert Sanchez at his near post.
Chelsea regained control as their attacking players continued to cause problems. Palmer capped his impressive display with a composed finish through Bernd Leno’s legs, while Rogers marked his league bow by converting a cutback from fellow debutant Maxence Lacroix.
The visitors were impressive going forward, with Palmer, Joao Pedro and Rogers offering an early indication of the attacking options available to Alonso. Palmer, whose previous campaign was disrupted by fatigue and injuries, was particularly influential and repeatedly troubled Fulham’s defence.
Chelsea were less convincing at the other end.
Levi Colwill was booked following a lapse in concentration and then risked further punishment with a challenge on King. Sanchez also endured an uncertain evening, making two poor distribution errors before leaving space at his near post for Fulham’s first goal.
Those defensive concerns returned when Gonzalo Garcia headed home from close range to give Fulham renewed hope. The summer signing from Real Madrid became the first player since Chris David against Crystal Palace in May 2014 to score on his Premier League debut for Fulham.
Chelsea nevertheless survived the hosts’ late pressure to secure their first victory in an opening Premier League fixture since the 2022-23 season.
Despite defeat, there were encouraging signs for Fulham and new manager Alvaro Arbeloa. Garcia impressed with his movement, while 19-year-old England Under-21 international King drove his side forward from midfield and narrowly missed a late opportunity to rescue a point.
Fulham have now opened four Premier League campaigns with London derbies and lost every one.
For Alonso, the defensive mistakes will provide plenty to work on. But on his first Premier League night in charge, Palmer and Chelsea’s new-look attack ensured his tenure began with victory.
