Chelsea's Cole Palmer Provides Spark Off Bench in Naples

Manager Liam Rosenior praises young attacker's impact in crucial Champions League win

Jan. 28, 2026 at 6:55pm

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Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior was pleased with the performance of young attacker Cole Palmer, who came off the bench in the second half to provide two crucial assists in Chelsea's 3-2 comeback win over Napoli in the Champions League. Rosenior noted that they had to carefully manage Palmer's minutes as he returns from injury, but the manager was impressed with how the player stepped up to help turn the game around.

Why it matters

Palmer's ability to make an impact as a substitute could be a key factor for Chelsea as they look to secure a spot in the Champions League quarterfinals. The young attacker's return to form is also a positive sign for the club's long-term prospects, as he is seen as one of their most promising young talents.

The details

Rosenior explained that they had to be cautious with Palmer's playing time, as the attacker was just returning from injury. However, the manager was pleased with how Palmer seized his opportunity off the bench, providing two assists that helped Chelsea overturn a 2-1 deficit and secure a crucial away win in Naples.

  • Chelsea won the away match against Napoli on January 28, 2026.

The players

Liam Rosenior

The manager of Chelsea Football Club.

Cole Palmer

A young attacker for Chelsea who came off the bench to provide two crucial assists in the win over Napoli.

Joao Pedro

The Chelsea striker who scored the late winning goal against Napoli.

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What they’re saying

“I think it's a combination of both. There's no way Cole could have started this game and played 60/70 minutes. I thought later in the game we would be stronger. I thought Cole was magnificent. We need to look after him. The way he's managed himself in the last two weeks has been magnificent. He's a world-class player. There's been a lot of talk about Cole – he was a very, very happy man in the changing room after the game.”

— Liam Rosenior, Chelsea Manager

What’s next

Rosenior indicated that Cole Palmer could be fit to start against West Ham this weekend, though the manager may opt to bring him off the bench again to manage his minutes as he continues to work his way back to full fitness.

The takeaway

Chelsea's ability to bring on an impact substitute like Cole Palmer proved crucial in their comeback win over Napoli. The young attacker's return to form is an encouraging sign for the club, as they look to secure a spot in the Champions League quarterfinals and challenge for trophies this season.