Xabi Alonso's first Premier League match as Chelsea FC manager delivered a victory but also a familiar headache. A 3-2 win at Fulham was nearly undone by two costly errors from goalkeeper Robert Sanchez.
Alonso, taking charge after a summer appointment, saw his new-look attack fire quickly. A front three of Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers and Joao Pedro combined for the opening goal inside the first minute. Palmer, looking sharp after a quiet previous campaign, and the club-record signing Rogers were particularly influential. "They are going to be a very important part of the team," Alonso said after the match. "To build the team with them. They need to take responsibility, they need to lead the rest." The manager's attacking philosophy was evident as Chelsea pressed high and created several early chances, with Rogers hitting the post before Palmer sealed the win with a late, well-taken goal.
Defensive frailties exposed
The attacking promise was overshadowed by defensive uncertainty, most notably from Sanchez. He was at fault for Fulham's first goal, letting a Josh King effort with a very low expected goals value slip in at his near post. Later, he parried a shot directly to an opponent for the hosts' second. Alonso offered public support, focusing on the collective. "It's about the team, it's not about the individual," the manager stated. "We can adjust a few things. The first goal, we can do better to defend... We need to accept and to learn from them." Defensive lapses were not limited to the goalkeeper, however, as the back line appeared disjointed, especially during Fulham's spells of possession in the second half.
Other areas also showed room for improvement. With midfielders Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo not starting, the centre of the park lacked its usual control. Defender Levi Colwill, returning from injury, had a difficult evening and was substituted in the 65th minute. The win moves Chelsea up the early standings, but consistency will be key after finishing tenth last season. Alonso acknowledged the need for growth, saying, "The three points are important, but the performance showed we have a lot of work to do to find the balance we want."
The Sanchez dilemma
Sanchez's performance raises immediate questions for Alonso. The goalkeeper is entering his fourth season as the club's first choice, yet mistakes have been a recurring theme. While young keeper Mike Penders is an option, Alonso's post-match comments suggested no rash changes are planned. The manager's calm approach will be tested if such errors continue. Chelsea's next test is a home fixture against Aston Villa, a match where defensive solidity will be most important. Alonso's rebuild has begun with three points, but the foundation clearly needs work. The club's sporting directors are reportedly monitoring the goalkeeper market, but for now, Alonso has reiterated his commitment to working with the squad list.
