Cole Palmer was voted the 2026–27 Premier League Matchweek 1 Player of the Matchweek.
Palmer impressed in Chelsea’s 3–2 victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage. He assisted João Pedro’s goal after 31 seconds and then scored Chelsea’s third goal early in the second half. His direct contribution to both goals helped Chelsea begin the campaign with three points.
The fan vote gave Palmer 40 percent, while Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard finished second with 22 percent. Other nominees included Manchester City’s Rayan Cherki, Hull City’s Semi Ajayi, Brighton’s Jack Hinshelwood, Brentford’s Mamadou Sangaré, Ipswich’s Julio Enciso and Leeds United’s Anton Stach.
Palmer’s award should not be confused with the official player of a particular match or with the opening-round top scorer. It was a league-wide fan award covering Matchweek 1. His five shots, nine touches in the Fulham penalty area, 10 duels won and seven recoveries also made his performance statistically prominent.