Chelsea star Cole Palmer has described new manager Xabi Alonso as a “breath of fresh air,” saying the squad has quickly embraced the Spaniard’s ideas as preparations continue for the 2026/27 season.
Speaking during Chelsea’s pre-season tour, Palmer praised Alonso’s influence since taking charge on July 1, revealing that the players have responded positively to the new manager’s approach both on and off the pitch.
“Xabi Alonso has been a breath of fresh air for us as players. We are very happy, we like his ideas,” Palmer said.
Alonso has been equally complimentary of Chelsea’s No. 10, describing Palmer as a “special talent” and backing him to become one of the team’s leaders. The Chelsea boss said Palmer’s football intelligence and decision-making have stood out from their very first training sessions together, adding that building the team around key attacking players like him will be central to the club’s progress.
The mutual praise comes as Chelsea begin a new era under Alonso following a disappointing 2025/26 campaign. The former Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid midfielder has already begun reshaping the squad, with several new signings arriving and a greater emphasis being placed on tactical identity, midfield control and attacking fluidity.
Training images and videos showing Palmer and Alonso sharing smiles and conversations have further boosted optimism among supporters, many of whom hope the partnership can help Chelsea return to Premier League title contention.
Palmer remains one of Chelsea’s most influential players despite an injury-interrupted campaign last season, and Alonso has repeatedly stressed that unlocking the England international’s full potential will be one of his priorities.
With pre-season well underway, Chelsea fans are eager to see whether the early chemistry between manager and star player translates into improved performances when the new Premier League season begins.
