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Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has explained why Marco Palestra and Moises Caicedo missed the club’s league opener against Fulham. Both players suffered minor setbacks during the week and were not fit to feature at Craven Cottage, as per latest news.
Alonso explains Marco Palestra and Moises Caicedo absences
Chelsea began their first Premier League game under Alonso with several new faces in the starting XI. However, the absence of Palestra and Caicedo caught the attention of supporters before kick-off. As reported by Chelsea FC, Alonso confirmed that both players had suffered minor setbacks during the week. The manager explained that neither player was fit enough to take part in the opening game of the season.
“They had minor setbacks during the week, so they were not fit to play tonight,” Alonso said. The Chelsea boss also confirmed that Morgan Rogers and Maxence Lacroix would make their competitive debuts for the club. He added that both players would have important roles to play throughout the season.
Palestra and Caicedo were therefore left out as Chelsea travelled across west London for Alonso’s first competitive game in charge. Their absence was a setback, but the manager still named a strong starting XI. Robert Sanchez started in goal, while Josh Acheampong, Lacroix, Levi Colwill and Malo Gusto formed the defence. Reece James and Romeo Lavia started in midfield, with Jorrel Hato, Cole Palmer, Rogers and Joao Pedro completing the lineup.
Alonso starts with attacking approach
As reported by GOAL, Alonso’s selection showed his desire to play an attacking style from the beginning of his Chelsea career. Palmer, Rogers and Joao Pedro formed the front three, with the manager looking to use their pace and technical ability to put pressure on Fulham’s defence.
The approach quickly produced results. Chelsea scored three goals before the hour mark, with Joao Pedro, Rogers and Palmer all finding the net. For Alonso, the opening stages offered an encouraging sign that his attacking ideas can translate into competitive football. The manager has spent pre-season working with his squad, and the Fulham match provided the first real test of his methods. However, Chelsea’s attacking success was balanced by problems at the other end of the pitch.
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Chelsea defence gives Alonso concern
Despite scoring three times, Chelsea also conceded twice during the match. Fulham found the net through Josh King and Gonzalo Garcia, leaving Alonso with defensive issues to consider. The goals highlighted the importance of having players such as Caicedo available once they return to full fitness. The Ecuadorian midfielder is expected to play an important role in Chelsea’s plans because of his ability to protect the defence and win possession.
Palestra could also provide another option once he recovers from his setback. Chelsea have a long season ahead, meaning squad depth will be important as they compete in domestic and European competitions. Alonso will now hope the duo can return soon and strengthen his options.
While their absences were disappointing, Chelsea still showed attacking quality in the opening game of the new campaign. The manager will now focus on improving the defensive side of the team while building on an attacking performance that gave supporters plenty to be encouraged about.