Chelsea’s impressive start under Xabi Alonso has given supporters renewed optimism, but Sunday’s thrilling victory over Brighton also exposed a major weakness that could threaten the club later in the season.
Chelsea defeated Brighton 4-3 at Stamford Bridge to make it two Premier League victories from two under Alonso. They have also won in the League Cup, creating an early feeling that the Spanish manager has already changed the team’s mentality.
The attacking football has been particularly encouraging.
Chelsea produced several dangerous attacking moves and demonstrated the confidence to play aggressively against Brighton.
However, conceding three goals has highlighted a problem that cannot be ignored.
Chelsea have now gone 18 Premier League matches without keeping a clean sheet, a statistic that will concern Alonso despite the positive results.
The arrival of goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez provides experience and leadership, but Chelsea’s defensive issues involve more than simply the player between the posts.
Alonso must find a balance between attacking freedom and defensive discipline.
If Chelsea continue scoring freely but conceding at the same rate, they could find themselves involved in too many unpredictable matches.
For now, supporters are enjoying the transformation.
But the real test will come when Chelsea face stronger opponents capable of punishing defensive mistakes.
Alonso has made an excellent start, but the defensive problem remains the biggest question hanging over his Stamford Bridge project.