Xabi Alonso’s Premier League managerial debut was eventful on and off the pitch as the Blues beat Fulham 3-2 at Craven Cottage and captain Enzo Fernandez was kept out of the Starting XI amid reports that Man City were circling back on the Argentine midfielder.
That would’ve been a juicy enough storyline to follow before Fernandez was brought into the game for Romeo Lavia midway through the second half, not exactly signaling a falling-out, and was greeted by boos.
MORE — Fulham v Chelsea recap, highlights
Fernandez, after all, had a late return to the team following Argentina’s World Cup Final run and several PL stars had limited minutes this weekend.
And — oh yeah — there was the match, one dominated early by Chelsea but also less than safe as a 1-0 lead became 1-1 and a two-goal lead was slimmed to 3-2. Cole Palmer, Joao Pedro, and Morgan Rogers all found the back of the net with Palmer and Pedro also recording assists.
How did Xabi Alonso see it?
Xabi Alonso reacts to Chelsea debut vs Fulham
Thoughts on the game: “It was a very professional performance,” Alonso said. “The game had defined momentums, to win away in the Premier League, you know normally it’s really tough. We were prepared to manage the game emotionally as well. It’s a good one to build for the future.”
Goals were classy: “Great combination, great quality. We know if we reach them in good positions, we have to talent special things. Today I’m happy the three strikers all scored.”
On Cole Palmer: “I’ve really enjoyed his performance. He has played with responsibility, maturity, and freedom. That’s important that we get the best from Cole. If we want to have a good team we need a great Cole.”
Defensive issues? “Still a process for sure. We have to keep working, analyzing, and improving. Every game is going to be a lesson and we are still early days.”
On Enzo Fernandez getting booed and if he’ll stay at Chelsea: “In football I am not surprised by anything. We will see. I’m not sure what’s going to happen in the future.”
On coaching against longtime friend Alvaro Arbeloa: “A bit strange but we were prepared for that. I think they are going to do great.”
