Xabi Alonso's first match in charge of Chelsea produced a 6-4 victory over Western Sydney Wanderers at Accor Stadium — but the headline story was never really about the scoreline. It was about four forwards, each carrying a very different narrative.

Joao Pedro lights up Sydney

The undisputed star of the evening was Joao Pedro, who announced himself emphatically under Alonso's management with a nine-minute hat-trick. The Brazilian's finishing, power, and pace were on full display in an entertaining contest that underlined the gulf between Premier League and A-League opposition.

Alonso described Joao Pedro as "very, very hungry" and "determined to have a great season." The forward's motivation may have been sharpened by his recent omission from Brazil's World Cup squad.

A triallist makes history — and Delap struggles again

The opening goal of Alonso's reign arrived in spectacular fashion in the 6th minute, scored by 17-year-old Dastan Satpaev. Remarkably, Satpaev featured as a triallist — his official transfer from FC Kairat to Stamford Bridge cannot be completed until 12 August. Back in Kazakhstan, he is a genuine star, and a contingent of fans from his home country travelled to Sydney to watch him play.

Satpaev is quick, sharp in the box, and physically compact — qualities that have drawn comparisons to former Argentina and Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero. Alonso, who came up against Satpaev while at Real Madrid last season, praised him warmly: "He is a ball threat, he attacks the inner channel well and is good as a striker coming from the outside. He is really strong, really quick and I have been really impressed with him."

Satpaev is attempting to become the first Kazakh player to appear in a Premier League match. Whether he does so at Chelsea this season or on loan elsewhere remains to be decided, with Alonso saying: "We still have to take decisions."

At the opposite end of the mood spectrum was Liam Delap, who struggled once more — as he has in almost every outing for Chelsea since his £30 million move from Ipswich last summer. Short of confidence and form, Delap could now be sold, with Chelsea in advanced talks to sign Brighton's Danny Welbeck, 35, as an experienced replacement. Welbeck has agreed personal terms, though Brighton are declining to comment on the deal.

Henderson and what Alonso wants from his squad

Chelsea are also in discussions to sign Brentford midfielder Jordan Henderson, 36, as the club seeks to add experience and leadership following a disappointing 2025-26 campaign. When asked about pursuing two veteran players, Alonso was measured: "We need balance, to have a complete squad and make a good team. For that, we have an idea and plan."

Young talents get their moment

With several senior players still on holiday following the World Cup — among them club-record £117 million signing Morgan Rogers — Alonso handed opportunities to a clutch of academy players who, by his own admission, had impressed him in training.

Midfielders Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli and Reggie Watson, both 16, anchored the centre for extended spells, while 17-year-old Reggie Walsh stood out in a more advanced position. Watson was the only player to complete the full match. Left-back Landon Emenalo, 18, also featured prominently, with no senior alternative available in that position.

Winger Jamie Gittens was the standout senior contributor beyond Joao Pedro, registering his third goal in three pre-season appearances after two in closed-door friendlies against EFL opposition.

Chelsea's display was, by and large, sloppy — jet lag a plausible explanation — but this was, as Alonso will know, merely a first look. The more important questions about shape, depth, and intent are still to be answered. Alonso operated in a 4-2-3-1 formation, the same system Enzo Maresca used in his time as Chelsea head coach.