Xabi Alonso’s Premier League managerial debut unfolded with excitement as Chelsea triumphed over Fulham 3-2 at Craven Cottage. The match stirred interest with Chelsea captain Enzo Fernandez missing from the Starting XI due to rumors linking him to a potential move to Manchester City.

This storyline became even more compelling when Fernandez entered the field for Romeo Lavia halfway through the second half, a decision that did not suggest any discord between him and the coaching staff. However, Fernandez was met with boos from the crowd upon his introduction.

After returning late from Argentina’s World Cup campaign, Fernandez’s situation added drama to the match, which saw many Premier League stars receiving limited playtime over the weekend.

The match showcased Chelsea’s dominance early on; however, it was not without its tense moments. A 1-0 lead quickly turned into a 1-1 tie, and a two-goal advantage shrank back to a narrow 3-2 win. Scorers for Chelsea included Cole Palmer, Joao Pedro, and Morgan Rogers, with Palmer and Pedro also contributing assists.

Xabi Alonso Reacts to Chelsea Debut Against Fulham

Thoughts on the game: “It was a very professional performance,” Alonso remarked. “The game had defined momentums, and 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 in the 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.”

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.

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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.”

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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.”