Cole Palmer is hoping for a more consistent 2026-27 season with Chelsea after an injury-hit campaign disrupted his rhythm last term.

Despite his fitness struggles, the England international scored 10 goals and provided one assist in 26 Premier League appearances, and he is now looking to rediscover the form that has made him one of Chelsea’s key attacking players.

A major part of Palmer’s attempt to regain his confidence has been the backing of new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso. Palmer has revealed the message Alonso gave him before the start of the season, with the Spaniard urging him to play with freedom and express himself on the pitch.

“Before the season started, Xabi Alonso told me to just be free on the pitch. He knows what I’m capable of when I’m confident. He wants me to find spaces, move into dangerous areas, and make things happen. That kind of trust from a manager gives you a lot of belief. I feel like I can express myself without fear. I know where I can hurt the opposition, and he wants me to go out and do that. That’s what he told me,” Palmer said to Jio Hotstar.

The message comes after a difficult period for Palmer, who admitted that repeated injuries affected both his rhythm and confidence last season. The Chelsea forward said he is now fully fit and believes he has moved beyond the mental impact of those setbacks.

With Alonso placing emphasis on Palmer’s freedom in attacking areas, the midfielder is expected to remain an important figure in Chelsea’s plans this season. The manager’s confidence could prove significant as Palmer looks to become a consistent creative and goalscoring presence.

Chelsea will next face Leeds United in the Premier League on Thursday, September 10, with Palmer looking to continue his return to his best form. They lost their last Premier League encounter 2-1 against defending champions Arsenal.