Cole Palmer opens up on Morgan Rogers, England snub and Chelsea ambitions

Cole Palmer has opened up on Chelsea's blockbuster signing of Morgan Rogers, his disappointment at missing England's World Cup squad and his determination to bounce back after an injury-hit campaign.

Speaking during Chelsea's pre-season tour in Sydney, Palmer admitted he is excited to be reunited with one of his closest friends while insisting his full focus is now on helping Xabi Alonso's side return to the top of the Premier League.

The 24-year-old also revealed he came close to undergoing surgery during his recovery from a groin injury.

Palmer was asked whether Rogers would be allowed to continue using the famous "cold" celebration after completing his £117 million move from Aston Villa.

The Chelsea star, who has trademarked the celebration, responded with his trademark humour.

"I've trademarked it so if he tries to do anything, he'll have the bailiffs at his door."

He quickly laughed off the suggestion before adding:

"Nah, we'll do it together, I think."

Palmer revealed he had known about Rogers' move before it became public and admitted he found it difficult to keep the transfer secret.

The pair came through Manchester City's academy together and remain close friends.

"Everyone knows how good he is. Obviously he's one of my best friends so I'm very happy about it."

Palmer also spoke publicly for the first time about being left out of Thomas Tuchel's England squad for the World Cup.

While admitting the decision hurt, he insists he has already moved on.

"If someone told you that you're essentially not good enough to get in the squad, then you're going to think… try to go that extra bit harder."

Despite England reaching the semi-finals without him, Palmer says he is concentrating on Chelsea rather than international football.

"I'm just looking forward to the season with Chelsea, and to be honest, I'm not too bothered about that."

After an injury-disrupted 2025/26 season, Palmer says a seven-week summer break has left him refreshed ahead of the new campaign.

The attacking midfielder revealed he even travelled to Scandinavia to explore the possibility of surgery before ultimately deciding against an operation.

"We did speak about it. But I didn't end up getting it."

Palmer also praised new Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso, revealing the Spaniard contacted him after the England disappointment and has already outlined his tactical plans.

According to Palmer, Alonso sees him operating as a traditional No.10, playing between the lines and close to the main striker.

The England international believes Chelsea's busy recruitment, including the arrival of Rogers, has strengthened the squad significantly and left him optimistic about the season ahead.

Palmer is expected to play a central role under Xabi Alonso as Chelsea continue their pre-season preparations. With Morgan Rogers now part of the squad and Palmer fully recovered from injury, the Blues will hope the pair can quickly develop the chemistry that made them such exciting prospects during their time together in Manchester City's academy.