Chelsea kicked off their Premier League campaign under new manager Xabi Alonso with a thrilling 3-2 victory against local rivals Fulham. The match was highlighted by a strong performance from Chelsea’s attacking trio: Joao Pedro, Morgan Rogers, and Cole Palmer.
The Blues wasted no time scoring, netting just 31 seconds into the game. Cole Palmer, who had been sidelined by injuries last season, set up Joao Pedro for an exquisite finish over Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno. This goal became the fastest in Premier League history for a opening match.
Fulham responded in the 24th minute when Josh King capitalized on Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez’s mistake, equalizing for the home side.
Chelsea regained the lead just before halftime with a well-crafted team move involving Maxence Lacroix and £117 million signing Morgan Rogers, who delivered a clinical finish. The Blues extended their lead in the 54th minute when Pedro played Palmer, whose precise shot found the back of the net.
Fulham fought back later in the game, with Gonzalo Garcia heading in from Real Madrid on his debut. However, Chelsea held firm and sealed their win despite Fulham’s late efforts.
Enzo Fernandez, a key player for Argentina in the World Cup, received boos from Fulham fans when he came off the bench, possibly due to his connection with Manchester City rumors.
Alonso, who previously managed Liverpool and Spain, earned his first competitive victory as Chelsea boss. His former teammate Alvaro Arbeloa, now coaching Fulham, saw his side fall short in their Premier League debut.
Looking ahead, Alonso will need to rely on injured midfielders Moises Caicedo and Marco Palmeira to strengthen the team. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Sanchez faces early competition from Mike Penders, who has returned from Racing Strasbourg.