Chelsea’s Perfect Start, Troubling Defence: Can Xabi Alonso Fix the Blues’ Biggest Problem?

Chelsea’s Perfect Start, Troubling Defence: Can Xabi Alonso Fix the Blues’ Biggest Problem?

Chelsea have made the kind of start under Xabi Alonso that gets supporters dreaming about what could be possible this season. Two Premier League matches, two victories, six points and seven goals scored — but behind the impressive attacking numbers lies a warning sign that could become increasingly difficult to ignore.

The Blues have also conceded five goals in those opening two league games, leaving Alonso with a fascinating contradiction to solve: Chelsea look dangerous enough to hurt almost anyone going forward, but vulnerable enough at the back to give opponents hope.

The arrival of £117 million signing Morgan Rogers has added even more excitement to Chelsea’s attacking options. Reunited with his childhood friend Cole Palmer and playing alongside an in-form Joao Pedro, Rogers has helped create an attacking unit capable of producing moments of real quality.

When Chelsea move forward, there is a sense of unpredictability about them. Palmer’s creativity, Rogers’ power and directness, and Pedro’s sharpness in front of goal give Alonso several different weapons to work with. Seven goals in two matches is evidence that the attacking philosophy is already beginning to produce results.

But football is rarely won by attack alone.

Chelsea’s defensive record is the biggest concern to emerge from their perfect start. Conceding five goals in just two Premier League matches is hardly the foundation of a side hoping to compete near the top of the table.

Even the arrival of experienced Argentine international goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez could not immediately solve the problem. Martinez made his Stamford Bridge debut against Brighton & Hove Albion, but Chelsea still conceded three goals.

That raises an important question for Alonso: is Chelsea’s defence simply going through an early-season adjustment period, or is there a deeper problem that could haunt them throughout the campaign?

For now, the results are perfect and the attacking football is exciting. Chelsea supporters have every reason to be optimistic.

But if Alonso wants his side to turn an entertaining start into a successful season, he may need to make Chelsea considerably harder to break down.

Because while Chelsea’s attack could win them plenty of games this season, their defence could just as easily cost them the points that matter most.

Seven goals scored is impressive. Five conceded is a warning.

The question now is whether Xabi Alonso can find the balance before that warning becomes a serious problem starting with their visit to the Emirate Stadium on Sunday to take Arsenal in a mouthwatering London derby.

The Best Attack against the Best Defence.