Chelsea launched the Xabi Alonso era with a dramatic 3-2 Premier League victory over West London rivals Fulham on Monday. The win was secured by goals from forwards Joao Pedro, Morgan Rogers, and Cole Palmer, highlighting an exciting attacking display in their opening match of the season.

The victory marks a significant start for Alonso, who takes the helm at Stamford Bridge for his first competitive match. The club will be looking to build on this initial success as they navigate the challenges of the Premier League campaign.

Chelsea's dream start saw Cole Palmer assist Joao Pedro, who scored within 31 seconds, the quickest goal of the Premier League's opening fixtures. Fulham equalized in the 24th minute through Josh King. However, new signings Morgan Rogers and Maxence Lacroix combined for Chelsea's second goal in the 41st minute, with Rogers finding the net. Cole Palmer then extended Chelsea's lead early in the second half, scoring through the legs of Fulham's goalkeeper.

Fulham managed to pull a goal back in the 54th minute when Gonzalo Garcia headed home following a parried shot. Despite a late chance for Antonee Robinson to equalize, Chelsea held on to secure the three points, beginning Alonso's tenure with a hard-fought win.

Cole Palmer, who also contributed an assist, expressed his determination after a difficult previous season plagued by injuries. "I know the talent I've got, so I can put in performances like that," Palmer stated, emphasizing his commitment to overcoming setbacks and delivering strong performances.

Fulham's lineup featured league debutant Gonzalo Garcia, signed from Real Madrid, who managed to score on his first appearance. The match also saw Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez, a key player for Argentina, receive boos from the home crowd when he entered as a substitute, a moment underscoring the intense rivalry.

Alonso's coaching debut came against his former Liverpool and Spain teammate Alvaro Arbeloa, who was also making his Premier League coaching debut. Arbeloa briefly managed Real Madrid after Alonso last season, adding a layer of personal history to the managerial contest.

Looking ahead, Chelsea hopes for further solidity as injured players Moises Caicedo and Marco Palestra return. Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez may also face competition from Mike Penders, who has rejoined the club from Racing Strasbourg, indicating potential squad adjustments and strategic considerations for Alonso.