Three reasons Chelsea could challenge for title - and one they may not

What the report says

Chelsea began the Xabi Alonso era with an entertaining 3-2 Premier League win away to Fulham at Craven Cottage, but the BBC Sport report says the performance also highlighted a major imbalance in the squad. Chelsea’s new-look attacking trio of Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers and Joao Pedro all scored, with the front line producing the kind of fluid, high-energy play that could make Chelsea serious title contenders if it continues.

The article says Palmer looked close to his best after a difficult spell affected by injury, while Rogers impressed on his Chelsea debut following his club-record summer move from Aston Villa. Joao Pedro opened the scoring almost immediately, and Alonso praised the three forwards for helping drive the team forward. BBC Sport noted that the attacking display was especially encouraging because the players combined creativity, movement and finishing against a west London rival.

However, the piece also argues that goalkeeper Robert Sanchez remains a concern. Two errors contributed to Fulham’s goals, and former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher suggested Chelsea could struggle to win the league unless the position is strengthened. Alonso defended the goalkeeper collectively rather than singling him out, but the report says the issue could shape Chelsea’s season while the transfer window remains open. In short, the BBC’s analysis is that Chelsea’s attack looks capable of challenging anyone, but uncertainty in goal may prevent them from mounting a sustained title push.