Xabi Alonso has been talking about the credentials of Cole Palmer with the Chelsea manager enthused by what he has seen from the attacker to date
Cole Palmer
Cole Palmer is hoping for a fresh start under Xabi Alonso(Image: Ayush Kumar - Eurasia Sport Images)
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Xabi Alonso believes Cole Palmer has all the ingredients to "be a leader" on the pitch in his Chelsea side as the Blues attacker looks to leave a disappointing 2025/26 season behind.
The 24-year-old had an underwhelming 25/26 campaign - by his sky-high standards - and finished with 11 goals in all competitions for the Blues. Thomas Tuchel punished Palmer by leaving him out of the England squad for the World Cup, but that may have benefits for Chelsea.
Palmer was handed an extended break by being omitted and has admitted he is feeling refreshed and "ready to go". The Englishman has left quite the impression on Alonso over the last few weeks as Chelsea prepare for their second pre-season clash of the week against Tottenham in Sydney.
"I see that he's in a very positive mindset, with a very good mentality, very open to talk about football, to talk about what the team needs," said Alonso of Palmer. "His role in the team, he's going to be a leader on the pitch, so the better Cole we have, the better Chelsea we will have.
"That's for sure and I think that having a proper training, having a proper preparation is going to be important for him and you see that he's really focused on that and we are connecting, we are getting each other and so far I like his personality."
Alonso refused to be drawn on whether Palmer has a point to prove to Tuchel and his doubters next season but is determined to ensure the playmaker thrives in his team.
"My feeling is that he loves the game and he wants to enjoy it," added the Chelsea manager. "Once he enjoys it, that's the way he shows it, he transmits it, so the proof is to enjoy his game and to show his best level, he has shown it and for sure this year I see him with this desire and with this goal to have a great season."
Alonso also revealed at least five centre-backs could be on their way out of Stamford Bridge before the end of the summer transfer window. Maxence Lacroix's £52million move from Crystal Palace this week means Chelsea now have 10 central defensive options on their books.
When asked by football.london how many centre-backs he wants in the squad, the Blues boss replied sharply: "Four or five. Is that accurate enough? [laughs]"
The futures of Trevoh Chalobah, Wesley Fofana, Tosin Adarabioyo, Benoit Badiashile and Axel Disasi remain uncertain, while Mamadou Sarr and Aaron Anselmino appear likely to be loaned out for the upcoming season.