Xabi Alonso believes Chelsea must improve their pressing and emotional control despite opening their Premier League season with a 3-2 victory over Fulham.
Chelsea scored inside the opening minute at Craven Cottage through João Pedro before goals from Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer secured three points on Monday evening.
However, Fulham equalised through Josh King during the first half and remained dangerous after Gonzalo García reduced the deficit shortly after the interval.
A goal for Morgan Rogers on his Chelsea debut! 🔵 pic.twitter.com/hphe8y077v
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) August 24, 2026
Xabi Alonso identifies Chelsea pressing problem
Alonso highlighted the period following Fulham’s first equaliser as evidence that his players are still adjusting to his tactical demands.
Speaking to Chelsea’s official website, the head coach admitted his side “didn’t choose the right moments to press” during a difficult spell before recovering their composure.
Chelsea were without Moisés Caicedo, with Reece James and Roméo Lavia operating together in central midfield. The confirmed Chelsea line-up also featured Josh Acheampong alongside Maxence Lacroix and Levi Colwill in a three-man defence.
When Fulham escaped Chelsea’s first line of pressure, the hosts found space to attack through midfield and force the visitors into uncomfortable defensive situations.
Nevertheless, the underlying numbers demonstrated Chelsea’s effectiveness on the counterattack. According to FotMob’s match statistics, Alonso’s side recorded 18 shots and 1.70 expected goals despite having only 38 per cent possession.
Fulham managed 14 attempts and 1.34 expected goals, underlining that Chelsea created the clearer opportunities even while spending prolonged periods without the ball.
Chelsea attack delivers as Alonso demands greater control
Alonso had already explained his plan for Palmer and Rogers, and their movement behind João Pedro consistently troubled Fulham.
The clearest example came when Lacroix advanced from defence to provide the assist for Rogers’ debut goal, demonstrating the attacking freedom Alonso wants from his system.
Yet the Chelsea head coach also stressed the importance of knowing when “not to lose this emotional control” as Premier League matches become increasingly unpredictable.
Chelsea ultimately protected their advantage to secure a winning start, but Alonso’s assessment suggests sharper pressing and greater composure will remain immediate priorities.
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