Xabi Alonso’s debut as Chelsea manager finished with a 6-4 win over Western Sydney Wanderers, but the result told only part of the story. Joao Pedro grabbed attention with a hat-trick in just nine minutes, while teenage forward Dastan Satpaev made a strong first impression. Liam Delap had another tough day, and Chelsea kept working on moves for experienced targets Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson.
Though Chelsea beat their A-League opponents comfortably at Accor Stadium, Alonso admitted the team was still adjusting after a long flight. Beyond Joao Pedro’s brilliance, several young players from the academy also stood out as the Spaniard got his first look at the squad.
Joao Pedro leads the way as Chelsea attack impresses
Joao Pedro delivered the best performance of the evening by scoring three times in nine minutes. The Brazilian forward helped Chelsea secure a 6-4 victory and earned praise from Alonso, who called him “very, very hungry” and determined to have a strong season.
The striker’s display came after he missed out on Brazil’s World Cup squad. His finishing, speed, and strength were clear highlights in a match that also showed the gap between Premier League and A-League quality.
Chelsea’s play was not perfect, though. Alonso’s side looked shaky at times as they dealt with jet lag, leaving Joao Pedro as the clear star of the show.
Satpaev shines while Delap deals with doubt
Seventeen-year-old Dastan Satpaev scored the first goal of Alonso’s reign after only six minutes with a brilliant finish. The Kazakhstan forward played as a triallist because his transfer from FC Kairat cannot be completed until 12 August.
Alonso said he already knew Satpaev from Almaty and praised his ability to challenge defenders, attack central spaces, and combine speed with power. The Chelsea manager added that the teenager’s performances had impressed him.
On the other hand, Liam Delap had another difficult outing. The striker has struggled in most of his games since joining Chelsea from Ipswich, and his future is now uncertain as the club pushes forward with talks to sign Danny Welbeck. Personal terms have reportedly been agreed with the Brighton forward, while Chelsea are also negotiating with Brentford for Jordan Henderson as they look for more experience and leadership.
Alonso outlines plans for Chelsea squad
When asked about the pursuit of Welbeck and Henderson, Alonso said Chelsea need better balance to build a complete squad. He stressed that the club has a clear plan for strengthening the team.
Chelsea still have Emmanuel Emegha and Nicolas Jackson among their attacking options, though both were unavailable for the match. Alonso said decisions about the squad would continue as preparations for the new season move forward.
The manager also noted that Satpaev’s immediate future has not been decided yet. Talks will take place before deciding whether the teenager stays with Chelsea or goes elsewhere.
Young Chelsea players adapt to Alonso’s system
Alonso started his Chelsea spell using the 4-2-3-1 formation that Enzo Maresca had favored before him. With several senior players still absent after the World Cup, including club-record signing Morgan Rogers, many academy prospects got their chance.
Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli, Reggie Walsh, and Reggie Watson all impressed in midfield, with Watson playing the whole match. Alonso had already said before kick-off that he was surprised by how well seven academy players called up to first-team training had adjusted.
Landon Emenalo also got valuable minutes because Chelsea lacked available left-backs, while winger Jamie Gittens continued his strong pre-season by scoring his third goal in three games. His performances, along with the rise of several young players, provided positive signs during Alonso’s first match in charge.