9 new managers begin Premier League journey with exciting results

The new Premier League season has kicked off with a bang, notably marked by the arrival of nine new managers across various clubs. Among them is Xabi Alonso, who has taken the reins at Chelsea. His first outing came against Fulham, and the match showcased both potential and pitfalls for the Blues.

Alonso's Chelsea wasted no time in making an impression, taking the lead just 31 seconds into the match. This rapid start hinted at the attacking prowess that Alonso hopes to harness throughout the season. The new attacking trio of Cole Palmer, Joao Pedro, and Morgan Rogers was particularly noteworthy, with each player contributing significantly to the team's attacking threat. Rogers, a summer signing, made his mark by scoring, giving fans a glimpse of the potential this new Chelsea side possesses.

However, the match also presented challenges that Alonso must address quickly. While the attacking players shone, goalkeeper Robert Sanchez's performance raised alarms. Sanchez was culpable for both goals conceded, and his inconsistency could jeopardize Chelsea's Premier League ambitions. The duality of having an explosive attack paired with a leaky defense is a concern that Alonso will need to navigate effectively.

Tactically, Alonso employed a back three, using Reece James in a versatile role that allowed him to contribute both defensively and in midfield. This strategy showed promise, but the execution left much to be desired, particularly as Fulham capitalized on defensive lapses. The need for a reliable goalkeeper cannot be overstated if Chelsea is to challenge for a higher league position.

Across the league, other new managers faced their own trials. For Marco Rose at Bournemouth, the disappointment of conceding two late goals against Manchester City overshadowed an otherwise promising debut. Rose's team was within minutes of a memorable win but ultimately fell short, showing resilience that could bode well for the season ahead.

At Crystal Palace, Pierre Sage faced a frustrating start with a loss to Everton. Despite a solid first half where his team created chances, they failed to convert and paid the price. Sage's team will need to improve their finishing as they prepare for a tough fixture against Manchester City.

Fulham's new manager, Alvaro Arbeloa, also had a difficult initiation, conceding early in the match against Chelsea. The young talent, particularly 19-year-old Josh King, will be pivotal for Arbeloa as he seeks to build a competitive side. There are clear indications that Arbeloa will need to work on the team's scoring ability to relieve pressure on his defense.

Meanwhile, Andoni Iraola's debut at Liverpool ended in a draw against Newcastle, which highlighted defensive issues that plagued the team last season. Iraola's side needs to tighten up in midfield, as they were repeatedly exposed to counter-attacks. The late penalty saved them from defeat, but the performance raised questions about their defensive solidity going forward.

In Manchester, Enzo Maresca's tenure began with a dramatic comeback for City, who secured a win against Bournemouth in the dying moments. This result will undoubtedly ease some pressure off Maresca, but the match revealed that his squad is still a work in progress. The tactical adjustments he made were evident, yet consistency will be crucial as the season unfolds.

As the season progresses, it will be intriguing to see how these new managers adapt to their roles and how their teams evolve. For Xabi Alonso and Chelsea, the early signs are mixed, but the attacking flair showcased provides a foundation to build upon. The key will be addressing defensive frailties quickly to ensure that Chelsea can challenge at the right end of the table.