Chelsea wins Premier League opener, but Caicedo misses out with injury

Chelsea began their new Premier League era with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Fulham, marking a successful debut for coach Xabi Alonso. However, the win was overshadowed by the absence of key midfielder Moisés Caicedo, who was left out due to a physical issue.

Caicedo, a regular starter and crucial player for the London club, was not included in the squad after experiencing discomfort during the week. Alonso explained that the team preferred not to take risks with the Ecuadorian international, also noting that Marco Palestra was unavailable for similar reasons. "During the week they had some setbacks. We don't want to take too much risk. They weren't ready to play tonight. We need to go week by week, but today they weren't prepared," Alonso stated.

Despite Caicedo's absence, Chelsea secured the win with goals from João Pedro, Morgan Rogers, and Cole Palmer. Fulham mounted a late comeback, but Chelsea held on for the three points. The club has not yet provided a specific diagnosis or timeline for Caicedo's return, with his condition to be assessed on a weekly basis.

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During the week they had some setbacks. We don't want to take too much risk. They weren't ready to play tonight. We need to go week by week, but today they weren't prepared.