Xabi Alonso has made an impressive start to life as Chelsea manager, winning all three of his opening matches and overseeing a free-scoring Blues side.
Chelsea’s latest victory came on Sunday when they edged Brighton 4-3 in a thrilling Premier League encounter at Stamford Bridge. The result followed a 3-2 league win over Fulham and a 2-0 Carabao Cup victory against Luton Town.
The three victories have produced nine goals, with Chelsea already showing significant attacking improvement under Alonso. Against Brighton, Romeo Lavia, Pedro Neto, João Pedro and Cole Palmer were all on target as Chelsea raced into a three-goal lead before eventually holding on for the win.
Alonso’s side has, however, shown some defensive vulnerabilities. Chelsea conceded twice against Fulham and three times against Brighton, raising questions about whether the team can maintain its early momentum against stronger opposition.
The perfect start has nevertheless generated optimism among Chelsea supporters, particularly after the club endured a difficult campaign last season and finished 10th in the Premier League. Alonso’s arrival has brought renewed confidence and attacking intent to the squad.
The former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen coach will now face a major test of his side’s title credentials when Chelsea travel to face defending champions Arsenal on September 6.
With three wins from three and nine goals already scored, Chelsea have given their supporters plenty of reason to believe they could compete near the top of the Premier League this season. The Arsenal clash, however, is likely to provide a much clearer indication of whether Alonso’s revitalised side can genuinely emerge as serious title challengers.
SOURCE: SKY SPORTS
