Chelsea midfielder Palmer praises new coach Alonso as 'breath of fresh air'

Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer says new head coach Xabi Alonso has brought a 'breath of fresh air' to the squad after replacing Liam Rosenior as permanent manager. Palmer, who has been training with Alonso during pre-season, praised the Spaniard's ideas and said the players are happy with the changes. He also joked about the £117 million British-record signing Morgan Rogers, saying he has trademarked Rogers's goal celebration and joke-threatened that bailiffs would turn up if Rogers tried to copy it, adding that they will probably celebrate together.

The appointment signals a shift in Chelsea's tactical direction, with Alonso known for his possession-based, high-pressing style honed at Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid's youth setup. Rogers, an English winger, becomes the most expensive British player ever, raising expectations for immediate impact on the wing.

For Nigerian Chelsea supporters, the changes could mean a more attractive, attacking style of play and more opportunities for wingers to shine—something that often resonates with local fans who favor flair.

With the new coach's philosophy still being tested in pre-season, will Chelsea's style evolve to suit the flair-loving Nigerian fanbase, or should supporters temper expectations until the new system proves itself in competitive matches?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/07/31/epl-xabi-alonso-a-breath-of-fresh-air-cole-palmer/