Alonso's first Chelsea match was a tale of four strikers
Xabi Alonso's debut as Chelsea manager featured a 6-4 victory over Western Sydney Wanderers, highlighted by a hat-trick from Joao Pedro. The match also underscored ongoing squad adjustments, including potential transfers for Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson.
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High-profile managerial changes and transfer market activity significantly impact the competitive landscape of professional football.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Joao Pedro scored a hat-trick to cement his position as Chelsea's main striker
Football reporter Published 28 July 2026 Xabi Alonso's first match as Chelsea manager was defined by four strikers - an untouchable one, one that struggled again and could leave, a promising talent, and one that could join.
The star was Joao Pedro, who scored a nine-minute hat-trick to help Alonso's side to a 6-4 win against Western Sydney Wanderers in a match that highlighted the gulf between Premier League and A-League teams.
Perhaps it was the disappointment of being left out of Brazil's World Cup squad that inspired the forward to showcase his finishing prowess as well as his power and pace in an entertaining spectacle at Accor Stadium.
Alonso described Joao Pedro as "very, very hungry" and "determined to have a great season".
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