Chelsea's first clean sheet in nine months signals early Alonso progress against Everton

Xabi Alonso’s Chelsea secured a hard-fought Premier League victory over Everton, recording their first clean sheet in nine months and offering the Spaniard a meaningful early marker as he settles into life in English football’s top flight.

Pedro Neto’s goal, set up by a Jarrel Hato assist following a Morgan Rogers reverse-pass, proved the difference on a feisty afternoon that tested Chelsea’s resolve throughout. The match was also overshadowed by a serious second-half collision involving goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who was carefully stretchered off with his neck and head requiring support. Martinez managed a thumbs-up to Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite — who remained by his side for much of the ten minutes it took to move him safely — while Jordan Pickford also crossed the pitch to check on his fellow goalkeeper.

For Alonso, the clean sheet carries particular significance. Chelsea conceded freely for much of last season, and the new head coach has already made an impression on the team’s discipline after they accumulated a category-leading eight red cards in 2023-24. That discipline was tested repeatedly here, with referee Paul Tierney declining to show Morgan Rogers a second yellow card late in the first half after a challenge on James Garner — a decision that looked questionable in the moment.

Garner’s understated reaction arguably cost Everton, as Rogers went on to contribute directly to the only goal of the game shortly after the interval.

Despite the encouraging signs, the expectations surrounding Alonso’s tenure are unambiguous. With no European football to manage this season and a squad offering considerable depth and options, anything short of a genuine title challenge will be considered a disappointment. Chelsea finished last season with a mediocre league campaign, and the ownership’s significant investment demands a sharper return.

Everton, meanwhile, continue to struggle for goals under David Moyes. They have scored eight times in seven league games this season, a modest return that echoes the 47 they managed across the entirety of last campaign. Pickford, under pressure from James Trafford for his England place, had a difficult afternoon — his error contributing to the goal — and a Moyes side’s limited attacking output means any individual mistake tends to carry greater consequence.

For Chelsea and Alonso, the win and the shutout represent a small but tangible step forward. The real measure of his tenure, however, will come across the months ahead.