Alonso wins first Chelsea game as Rogers scores on debut in 3-2 victory over Fulham

Xabi Alonso secured a winning start as Chelsea manager, guiding the team to a dramatic 3-2 victory over Fulham. The win was fueled by a debut goal from Morgan Rogers and an early strike from Joao Pedro, just 31 seconds into the match. Alonso, hired to improve Chelsea's dismal 10th-place finish last season, faced a chaotic west London derby in his first game.

Morgan Rogers, who recently became the most expensive British player in history following his £117 million move from Aston Villa, put Chelsea back in front. Cole Palmer extended the lead in the second half, and despite another defensive lapse from goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, which allowed Fulham to score their second goal, Chelsea held on for the win. Sanchez's performance drew criticism after he conceded an equalizer from a Josh King strike earlier in the game.

Alonso's tactical approach, a bold 3-4-3 formation, saw his team attack with purpose, though it also left them exposed at the back at times. The partnership between debutant Rogers and Palmer was highlighted as a key factor for Chelsea's attacking display. Keeping these players fit and performing could be crucial for Chelsea's ambitions of qualifying for the Champions League.

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