'Minor setbacks' - Xabi Alonso explains why Chelsea duo Marco Palestra and Moises Caicedo miss Premier League opener

Alonso has confirmed why Chelsea duo Palestra and Caicedo are not in the matchday squad for our Premier League opener against Fulham. The news came as a surprise to many supporters as the Blues made the short trip to Craven Cottage for the first competitive fixture under the Spaniard’s leadership.

Alonso faced the media pre-game and was askedwhy the duo missed out. He replied: "They had minor setbacks during the week, so they were not fit to play tonight. New faces debut for us, Morgan and Max, and they are going to play important roles through the year."

Despite the injury blows, Alonso’s selection remained aggressive as he looked to start his tenure with three points. The manager handed opportunities to new signings to make their mark on the team from the first whistle. Maxence Lacroix and Morgan Rogers were both selected to start, providing the physicality and creativity Alonso desires.

The Spaniard handed starts to an attacking trio of Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers and Joao Pedro. The selection indicated a clear intent to play on the front foot, utilising the pace and technical ability of the front three to put pressure on the Fulham backline.

Alonso’s attacking intentions were realised in his first official appearance with the Blues, as the team scored three goals by the 60th minute through Pedro, Rogers and Palmer. However, the real problem was in Chelsea’s defence, as they also conceded two goals, scored by Josh King and Gonzalo Garcia for the home side.

Starting a new era with a derby at Craven Cottage is never a simple task, and Alonso acknowledged the weight of the occasion before the game. Our top-flight campaign begins a stone’s throw away from Stamford Bridge, with Alonso’s first competitive game as Chelsea manager taking place at Craven Cottage, the home of our west London neighbours.

Alonso is fully aware that his side must remain composed under the pressure of a hostile away crowd. He said: "Everyone is excited in the building and in the team. It’s great that after a long pre-season we are where we want to be. First Premier League game and I’m really happy to be involved. It’s going to be emotional for everyone, given it’s our first game."

The absence of Caicedo in particular necessitated a change in the midfield dynamic, with Romeo Lavia and Reece James taking on significant responsibilities in the central areas. Alonso’s tactical flexibility will be tested early in the season as he balances the return of injured players with the need for consistent results.

The manager’s focus remains on the long-term progression of the squad, regardless of the individuals available on any given matchday. By handing debuts to Lacroix and Rogers, he is signaling that every player in the squad must be ready to step up. The "minor setbacks" for Palestra and Caicedo are seen as mere hurdles in what Alonso hopes will be a successful campaign.