Xabi Alonso‘s inaugural match as Chelsea manager against Western Sydney Wanderers highlighted the roles of four distinct strikers. The game, which saw Chelsea secure a 6-4 victory, featured a standout performance from Joao Pedro, while also showcasing a trialist, a struggling forward, and discussions around a potential new signing.
Joao Pedro was a central figure in the match, scoring a nine-minute hat-trick. His performance, marked by finishing prowess, power, and pace, contributed significantly to Chelsea‘s win at Accor Stadium. Alonso described Joao Pedro as “very, very hungry” and “determined to have a great season,” suggesting a strong start to his tenure.
Strikers in Focus
The match also introduced Dastan Satpaev, a 17-year-old trialist from FC Kairat, who scored Alonso‘s first goal for Chelsea just six minutes into the game. Satpaev‘s formal move to Stamford Bridge cannot be completed until 12 August. He is aiming to become the first Kazakh player to feature in a Premier League match and has garnered comparisons to former Argentina and Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero due to his quickness and ability in the box. Alonso, who previously faced Satpaev with Real Madrid, noted his impressive ball threat and attacking capabilities.
In contrast to Satpaev‘s promising debut, fellow starting forward Liam Delap reportedly struggled during the match. This follows a pattern of difficulty for Delap in nearly every appearance for Chelsea since his move from Ipswich last summer. Reports suggest Delap could be sold, with Chelsea reportedly in advanced talks to sign Danny Welbeck, a 35-year-old striker, as an experienced replacement. Welbeck has reportedly agreed personal terms, though his current club Brighton has not commented on the potential deal.
Tactical Approach and Squad Development
Alonso‘s tactical setup for the match utilized a 4-2-3-1 system, a formation previously favored by Enzo Maresca. This early glimpse into Alonso‘s strategy came as several senior players were still on holiday following the World Cup. The squad for the Western Sydney Wanderers fixture included a mix of first-team players and academy talents.
The starting XI featured Josh Acheampong, Tosin, and Liam Delap, alongside academy graduates. Substitutes included players such as Cole Palmer, Jamie Gittens, Estevao Willian, and Joao Pedro, who later made a significant impact. Alonso‘s selection provided opportunities for younger players, with Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli and Reggie Watson, both 16, anchoring the midfield for extended periods, and 17-year-old Reggie Walsh impressing in an advanced role. Landon Emenalo, 18, also received a notable opportunity at left-back due to other players’ unavailability.
Beyond the striker narratives, Chelsea is also reportedly in talks to sign Jordan Henderson, a 36-year-old midfielder from Brentford. This move is aimed at adding experience and leadership to the squad following a disappointing 2025-26 season. When questioned about signing older players, Alonso emphasized the need for “balance” to create a “complete squad” and a “good team.”
The match also saw Jamie Gittens, a winger, continue his strong pre-season form, scoring his third goal in three appearances. His previous goals came in behind-closed-doors friendlies against EFL opposition. The team’s performance against Western Sydney Wanderers, despite the goal difference, was described as largely “sloppy and imperfect,” with the team still adjusting to jet lag.
Midfielder Lavia was absent from the match due to a new hamstring issue, as confirmed by Alonso. He had previously struggled with persistent hamstring problems, limiting his appearances last season. Alonso stated that he decided it “was not worth taking a risk” with Lavia, who is hoped to return in time to face Tottenham on Saturday.
The match against Western Sydney Wanderers was the opening fixture of Chelsea‘s pre-season tour and took place at Accor Stadium.
The club’s official app and website, CFC+, offered live coverage of the game and all pre-season fixtures for an annual cost of £14.99.
Source: bbc.com
