‘Great signing’ – Xabi Alonso reveals Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer plan

Xabi Alonso has outlined how Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer could operate together at Chelsea. \The Blues head coach expects Rogers to adapt quickly and believes their connection can raise the quality of his attack.

Rogers completed his move from Aston Villa last week and signed a contract until 2033. He is currently resting after helping England finish third at the World Cup, so he has not travelled on Chelsea’s pre-season tour.

Alonso described the 23-year-old as a “great signing” ahead of Tuesday’s friendly against Western Sydney Wanderers. He believes Rogers can provide an immediate impact because of his Premier League experience and tactical flexibility.

🚨 Xabi Alonso on if there a plan in place for Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer to play alongside each other:

"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… pic.twitter.com/3ObbhX5dQP

— Chelsea Dodgers (@TheBlueDodger) July 27, 2026

Alonso’s plan for Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer

Rogers can play from the left, the right or in a central pocket behind the striker. Alonso wants to place him close to Chelsea’s number ten, which could allow Palmer and Rogers to operate as two attacking midfielders.

“I have a plan, an idea, and I can see them linking really well,” Alonso said.

The Spaniard stressed the importance of finding balance around his most creative players. Chelsea must maintain control in possession while ensuring Rogers and Palmer receive the ball in areas where they can attack defenders.

The comments point towards Palmer retaining freedom in central areas. Rogers could begin from the left before moving inside, while a full-back provides the attacking width.

Their existing friendship should help the partnership develop. Rogers and Palmer have known each other since representing England at youth level and later shared Manchester City’s academy.

Palmer is expected to feature against Western Sydney Wanderers, while Rogers will join Alonso’s group after his extended break. The latest ReadChelsea match preview covers the available squad and predicted starting lineup.

Alonso does not appear concerned about fitting Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer into the same team. His challenge is building the correct midfield and attacking structure around two players who prefer influencing matches from similar central positions.