Xabi Alonso's tenure as Chelsea manager began with a 3-2 victory over west London rivals Fulham at Craven Cottage.
Chelsea opened the scoring within seconds through Joao Pedro. Fulham equalized midway through the first half when Josh King beat Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez. After halftime, Chelsea extended their lead to 3-1 with goals from Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer. Gonzalo Garcia pulled one back for Fulham, but they were unable to find an equalizer.
Fulham's lineup included Bernd Leno, Timothy Castagne, Calvin Bassey, Jorge Cuenca, Antonee Robinson, Josh King, Sander Berge, Oscar Bobb, Alex Iwobi, Cesar Palacios, and Gonzalo Garcia. Substitutes used were Shea Charles, Kevin, and Ryan Sessegnon.
Chelsea's starting XI featured Robert Sanchez, Josh Acheampong, Maxence Lacroix, Levi Colwill, Malo Gusto, Reece James, Romeo Lavia, Jorrel Hato, Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers, and Joao Pedro. Substitutes included Enzo Fernandez, Pep Chavarria, and Pedro Neto.
Cole Palmer was instrumental in Chelsea's attack, providing the assist for Joao Pedro's opening goal and later scoring himself. Palmer's performance has drawn attention, with hints of his impact being noted in relation to the England team.
Robert Sanchez faced criticism for his goalkeeping, appearing vulnerable on both of Fulham's goals. The club has been urged by some fans to seek a new goalkeeper before the transfer window closes.
Fulham's new arrivals, Cesar Palacios and Gonzalo Garcia, both featured. Garcia marked his debut by scoring Fulham's second goal, reacting to a rebound from Sanchez's save.
Chelsea's midfield saw Reece James deployed centrally due to Moises Caicedo's absence. Romeo Lavia also featured in midfield, bringing aggression to the team. Enzo Fernandez was introduced as a substitute in the 65th minute, receiving mixed reactions from the crowd.
Maxence Lacroix provided an assist for Morgan Rogers' goal, and also contributed defensively. Josh Acheampong, a young defender, made several blocks in the first half.
Fulham's manager, Alvaro Arbeloa, made several substitutions in an attempt to find an equalizer, but Chelsea held on for the win. The match was officiated by referee John Brooks.