Chelsea Women’s summer signings Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer have made no secret of their desire to play together under new manager Xabi Alonso this season. The £117m midfielder Rogers called Palmer’s constant messages “the most special thing” about joining the Blues from Aston Villa, where the pair forged a close bond. Chelsea Women finished third in the 2025 Women’s Super League with 49 points from 22 games (15 wins, 4 draws, 3 losses) and recent form of five wins and a draw.

How Rogers and Palmer could unlock Chelsea Women’s attack

Rogers and Palmer spent months talking about reuniting on the pitch after their time together at Aston Villa. Rogers, who cost £117m, said Palmer’s calls and texts have been non-stop since the move became public. The friendship adds an off-field spark, but on it the duo bring direct, creative energy that could stretch defences. Chelsea Women scored 44 goals last season while conceding 20, leaving them six points behind Manchester City in the title race.

What does Rogers bring to Alonso’s system?

Alonso’s Chelsea Women favour high-pressing, possession-heavy football, but last season’s rise in man-to-man pressure forced teams to adapt. Rogers thrives in one-on-one duels and can carry the ball over long distances, traits that fit Alonso’s flexible approach. At Villa, Rogers often played as a narrow left winger in a 4-2-3-1, drifting inside to curl shots with his right foot or drag them inside the near post. His athleticism and ball-striking made him a constant threat in transitions, something Chelsea Women will need if they aim to close the six-point gap to leaders Manchester City.

Can Chelsea Women accommodate two similar profiles?

Rogers and Palmer share a creative, goal-facing style that overlaps in midfield. Alonso’s challenge is to design a system that lets both operate without clashing. At Villa, Rogers slotted into a 4-4-2 out of possession and pressed high alongside Ollie Watkins, showing he can adapt to different roles. Chelsea Women’s pre-season friendlies will be the first chance to see how Alonso blends the two, especially with Palmer arriving from Manchester City where he starred last term.