Should Chelsea start to worry? Five things we learn from 4-3 win over Brighton

Chelsea’s 4-2 win over Brighton highlighted their attacking strength while exposing concerns over midfield depth, defensive stability and Robert Sánchez’s place in the team.

Chelsea made it two Premier League wins from two under Xabi Alonso with a thrilling 4-3 victory over Brighton at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

The result underlined the attacking quality available to the Blues, but it also exposed areas that still need attention as the transfer window approaches its final stages.

Romeo Lavia, João Pedro, Pedro Neto and Cole Palmer were on target for Chelsea, while Brighton replied through Malick Yalcouyé, a João Pedro own goal, and a late late consolation from Pascal Gross.

Five things we learned from Chelsea 4-3 Brighton

1. Chelsea’s attack is already firing

Chelsea have little reason to worry about goals at this stage. João Pedro, Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer continue to provide a dangerous attacking combination, while Pedro Neto also got on the scoresheet against Brighton. With Estêvão, Geovany Quenda, Jamie Gittens, Danny Welbeck and others available from the bench, Alonso has plenty of attacking options to rotate.

2. Midfield depth remains a concern

Enzo Fernández’s expected departure makes Chelsea’s midfield situation increasingly important. Against Brighton, Malo Gusto was used in the starting XI while Moisés Caicedo remained among the substitutes after returning from injury. Romeo Lavia started centrally, but Chelsea will need more dependable options if Fernández leaves and Caicedo suffers another setback.

3. Chelsea still have defensive problems

Scoring four goals did not completely hide Chelsea’s defensive shortcomings. Brighton found the net three times and created moments that exposed gaps in Alonso’s structure. Chelsea have now conceded five goals in their opening two league games, suggesting that defensive organisation remains one of the main areas for improvement despite the positive start.

4. Moises Caicedo’s injury could be crucial

Moises Caicedo was only fit enough for the bench against Brighton, but his availability could prove important to Alonso’s plans. His ability to protect the defence and cover ground in midfield could give Chelsea greater balance, but now he could be set for an other sideline.

5. Martínez has immediately taken Sánchez’s place

The biggest selection statement came in goal. Emiliano Martínez was confirmed as a Chelsea player only hours before kick-off, yet Xabi Alonso immediately handed him his debut against Brighton. Robert Sánchez was left out of the squad, making it clear that the Argentine has moved straight into contention for the starting position. Martínez’s arrival follows concerns over Sánchez’s recent performances.