Xabi Alonso picked up his first home win as Chelsea boss, seeing off Real Sociedad 3-1 in their final pre-season outing, according to Sky Sports.
The Spaniard again turned to the 3-4-3 shape that served him so well at Bayer Leverkusen, though Chelsea endured a difficult opening period before finding their rhythm. Joao Pedro was the standout performer, netting twice, while summer arrival Morgan Rogers marked his debut with a goal of his own.
Not everything was smooth sailing at Stamford Bridge, however. Enzo Fernandez was given a mixed reception by the home crowd, with the Argentine midfielder jeered at points during the contest — a reminder that not all supporters are fully won over despite his performances.
Sky Sports reports the result offers Alonso encouragement as he continues to embed his tactical philosophy at Chelsea, even if the shaky start highlighted areas still needing work before the season gets fully underway.