Alonso vows to revive Palmer’s world‑class form, leaves Sanchez’s role open

On 22 August 2026, Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso said he is determined to unlock the ‘world‑class’ potential of playmaker Cole Palmer after a groin‑hit, injury‑plagued 2025‑26 season, while refusing to confirm whether goalkeeper Robert Sanchez will start the opening Premier League match at Fulham.

Injury woes and limited impact

The 2025‑26 campaign saw Cole Palmer struggle with a persistent groin problem. He also fractured his little toe after stubbing it on a door at home.

Palmer’s limited influence contributed to Chelsea finishing 10th in the Premier League.

Alonso said, “Cole is determined to enjoy his football. He wants to be fit, feel healthy and have a good connection with the players around him. If we reach him and he feels that flow, his level is top class, world class, and he will have a great season.”

Alonso added, “Sometimes you need to go through a moment with an injury to learn from that. Cole has gone through a difficult period and now he is working really hard to prevent those symptoms from returning.”

Discipline and goalkeeper decision

Chelsea’s trip to Fulham last season saw Marc Cucurella dismissed after 22 minutes as the ten‑man visitors lost 2‑1. The Blues also received eight red cards in 2025‑26, the most of any club in the Premier League.

When asked how he would respond to future red cards, Alonso replied, “It depends on the context. You can have a red card, it’s football, and there is always a context for everything. I don’t have written rules, but emotional control gives us the game control we want.”

Robert Sanchez is expected to start in goal versus Fulham over Mike Penders, although Alonso refused to confirm the decision. “We want healthy competition in all the positions,” he said, “the pitch is the boss of everything; I don’t decide, the players need to show me.” The comments were reported by KIERAN GILL of MAIL on 22 August 2026.