Chelsea began the new season with a hard-fought victory away at Fulham's Craven Cottage, with Cole Palmer and new signing Morgan Rogers delivering standout performances in a 3-2 win under manager Xabi Alonso.

Joao Pedro set the tone within the first 31 seconds, slotting a deft finish over Bernd Leno to give Chelsea an early advantage. Fulham hit back through Josh King, whose first-half equaliser briefly levelled proceedings before Rogers — making his debut after joining for £117 million — restored Chelsea's lead with a far-post finish from a Maxence Lacroix cut-back.

Palmer, widely regarded as Chelsea's best player on the day, added a third shortly after half-time with a composed, excellent finish. Debutant striker Gonzalo Garcia gave Fulham renewed hope with a close-range header, but Chelsea held firm to claim all three points.

Player of the match: Palmer

Palmer was the standout performer on the pitch, combining creativity and physical intensity throughout. He completed several superb dribbles, helped Chelsea control the match, and finished decisively for his goal. He looked sharp and refreshed heading into the new campaign.

Rogers impresses on debut

The £117 million summer recruit justified his price tag on his first competitive appearance. Rogers pressed aggressively from the front, played a key role in setting up Joao Pedro's opener, and capped his display with Chelsea's second goal. It was the kind of debut that gives supporters cause for confidence.

King the bright spot for Fulham

Fulham's standout performer was Josh King, the academy graduate who created chances, carried the ball forward, and scored the equaliser. He came close to levelling again late in the second half. Gonzalo Garcia, also making his debut, showed promise as a focal point in attack despite the difficult circumstances.

Sanchez endures a difficult afternoon

Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez struggled — an early kicking error gave away a corner, he failed to stop King's equaliser at his near post, and his parry from a cross fell to Garcia, who converted. It was a performance that will concern Alonso heading into the weeks ahead.

Elsewhere, Lacroix was a surprise positive for Chelsea, proving instrumental in both of the team's first two goals, while Fulham's Jorge Cuenca had a difficult afternoon at the back, contributing to Chelsea's opening goal with a poor clearance.