Chelsea Fall 3-0 as Alonso Admits Defensive Struggles

Brentford defeated Chelsea 3-0 at Gtech Community Stadium on 18 September 2026. Jaidon Anthony scored unmarked from a corner in the 61st minute after a tense, even opening hour. Igor Thiago and Fabio Carvalho added further goals as Chelsea collapsed after falling behind. Xabi Alonso said, "It's a process," adding, "It takes time for them to feel it and at the moment we are not feeling it fully to compete for the whole game." He said the side has dropped its consistency and was not able to maintain its level for the full 90 minutes, calling the display not enough to compete in the Premier League. Levi Colwill said, "At times we've been bullied in the box." Chelsea have conceded at least two goals in each of Alonso's first five league matches, the sixth manager to do so in Premier League history. They have allowed four set-piece goals in that span and 12 goals this season, most in the league, with 8.82 expected goals against. Henderson and Barco completed 116 passes between them with none into Brentford's box. Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli made his senior and Premier League debut as a late substitute. Left-rated coverage focused on Alonso listing failings across mentality, set pieces, duels, buildup and control. No right-rated coverage is in the record.