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Chelsea's Palmer Eager to Prove a Point After World Cup Disappointment
Cole Palmer said the snub has pushed him to work harder after Chelsea’s poor season and a seven-week summer break left him fresh.
On Friday, Chelsea playmaker Cole Palmer said he has a point to prove this season after missing out on England's FIFA World Cup 2026 squad, while hailing new manager Xabi Alonso as a "breath of fresh air".
Palmer was a high-profile omission from Thomas Tuchel's World Cup lineup after an injury-marred season at Chelsea; missing the tournament fuels his motivation to shine in the new campaign.
Chelsea recently signed attacking midfielder Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa for £117 million , with Palmer—a close friend from Manchester City academy days—expressing excitement about their reunion.
New coach Alonso began his reign on Tuesday by beating Western Sydney Wanderers 6-4, with the Spaniard expecting Palmer and Rogers to "link really well" on the pitch.
Chelsea will meet fellow English Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur in Sydney on Saturday for a pre-season friendly. Palmer feels "fresh" after a rare seven-week summer break.