Chelsea ready for all Enzo Fernandez scenarios as Moises Caicedo return remains unclear

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso says the club are prepared for “all scenarios” involving Enzo Fernandez before the transfer window closes, while there is no set date for Moises Caicedo to return from injury.

Alonso was speaking after Chelsea beat Brighton 4-3 in an eventful Premier League match at Stamford Bridge. The result moved Chelsea on to six points from their opening two games, placing them second in the table behind Manchester City on goal difference. Brighton remain on three points in ninth.

Asked about Fernandez’s absence, Alonso said Chelsea were focused on ensuring they had a strong enough squad for the season, regardless of what happens before the transfer deadline.

“We want what is best for the team. We do not know what will happen, but we are prepared for all scenarios. Whatever happens before the transfer window closes, I am sure we will have a good squad for all the Premier League matches,” he said.

Chelsea’s victory featured changing momentum and contrasting emotions, but Alonso said the club were satisfied to have overcome a strong Brighton side.

“I enjoy every win, but the match had different moments and mixed emotions. We are happy with the result and we value the win against a very good opponent,” he added.

Romeo Lavia, Pedro Neto, Joao Pedro and Cole Palmer scored for Chelsea. Brighton’s goals came from Malick Yalcouye and Pascal Groß, along with an own goal by Joao Pedro.

The result was Chelsea’s second league win of the campaign, although they extended an unwanted defensive record. The Blues have now failed to keep a clean sheet in 18 consecutive Premier League matches, their longest such run in the club’s history.

Martinez makes immediate Chelsea debut

Emiliano Martinez made his Chelsea debut against Brighton just hours after the club announced his arrival from Aston Villa on Sunday morning.

The 34-year-old Argentina goalkeeper, a World Cup winner, was brought straight into the starting line-up after completing his move. Alonso said Martinez’s experience meant he needed little preparation before making his first appearance for the club.

“Martinez is a world champion and is 34 years old. He has a lot of experience. I spoke to him yesterday and we discussed the match. He felt ready, and I did not need to tell him much for him to perform well,” said Alonso.

Martinez had hoped to mark his debut with a clean sheet, but Alonso was pleased with the goalkeeper’s impact despite having spent only 48 hours at Chelsea.

“He wanted to keep a clean sheet, but I was happy with his first impact with the team. He has spent only 48 hours inside the club, and now he will have a full week to prepare for the next match,” Alonso said.

The Chelsea manager also provided an update on Caicedo, who was not considered ready to return. Alonso said the midfielder’s latest problem was no worse than his previous injury, but the club would not risk involving him until he had fully recovered.

“The injury was not worse than the previous one. He was careful and he did not feel at his best, so we let him recover. He will not play until he is completely ready to take part without any problems,” Alonso said.