Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso can see summer signing Morgan Rogers “linking really well” with England star Cole Palmer in the upcoming Premier League campaign.
Blues playmaker Palmer had an injury-plagued campaign last season and failed to get the nod for Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the 2026 World Cup.
Rogers did play in the USA, Canada and Mexico – and set up England’s goal in the World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina, crossing to Anthony Gordon from the right flank.
The 24-year-old had a breakout season with Aston Villa in the 2025/26 campaign and moved to Stamford Bridge in a record-breaking £117 million switch from the Midlands.
Childhood friends finally reunited
Rogers and Palmer have been friends since childhood, and new Chelsea manager Alonso is excited to see their partnership blossom on the pitch for the Blues.
Alonso spoke to the press ahead of Chelsea’s pre-season tour of Australia, Hong Kong, Indonesia and Malaysia.
The tour kicks off on Tuesday, July 28 with a game against Western Sydney Wanderers.
READ MORE: Chelsea news: Morgan Rogers on working with Xabi Alonso and Cole Palmer
Not many better options
Alonso discussed the club’s capture of Rogers, saying on Sky Sports: “In that position, we needed an important player and I’m sure there were not many better options than Morgan Rogers.
“I think it means a lot to everyone and for the players that are already here as well.
“They have a good feeling and they are looking forward to having him.
“You need players who can have that almost-instant impact and I’m sure Morgan won’t need much time to adapt to the club, the system and his team-mates.
“That was the idea, to get a top player, and Morgan is one of them.”
Man with a plan
Alonso added on the prospect of Rogers and Palmer playing in the same starting line-up: “I have a plan. I have an idea. I can see them linking really well.
“We need to have a good mix.
“If we get that balance right and those special players in the right positions, with good control, then we will be more competitive with and without the ball.”
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