Our top-flight opener against the holders of the FA Cup and winners of this season’s Community Shield was a hard-fought encounter, with both sides having opportunities to claim victory.

The points ended up being shared at a sun-drenched Stamford Bridge, but it’s a game that will remain in the memory of those who made their Chelsea bows.

Jamie Gittens, signed from Borussia Dortmund in July, was named by Enzo Maresca in the starting XI, and the 21-year-old winger featured off the Blues' left flank before being substituted in the 54th minute of the contest.

Estevao Willian was Gittens' replacement, with the winger making his competitive bow for Chelsea. The Brazil international agreed a deal to join the Blues in June 2024, but couldn't complete his switch until he had turned 18 years old.

Used off the right flank – Pedro Neto moved over to the left after Gittens' withdrawal –  the 18-year-old was a consistent threat and tried to beat Tyrick Mitchell whenever he was left one-on-one with the Eagles' left-back.

Estevao Willian also had an opportunity to open his account in the final ten minutes. Unfortunately, his attempt from inside the penalty area cleared the crossbar.

Gittens and the Brazilian were not the only two new faces, however. Joao Pedro made his first Premier League outing for the Blues after impressing at the Club World Cup following a switch from Brighton and Hove Albion.

Liam Delap, who joined from Ipswich Town in June, replaced Joao Pedro with 18 minutes to play to make his first top-flight outing for Chelsea. The 22-year-old linked well in the final third to help fashion opportunities while also having a shot saved by Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson.

Midfielder Andrey Santos also made his Premier League bow for the Blues; the Brazilian replaced Enzo Fernández with 11 minutes to play and had an opportunity to win the game in the dying moments after being found inside the penalty area by Marc Cucurella.

However, the 21-year-old was leaning back and couldn't control his effort, and Maresca's side had to settle for a point.