Joao Pedro Double & Rogers Debut Goal Seal Chelsea Win as Blues Beat Real Sociedad

Chelsea ended their pre-season preparations with an encouraging 3-1 victory over Real Sociedad at Stamford Bridge, with João Pedro scoring twice and Morgan Rogers marking his Chelsea debut with a goal.

The result gave Xabi Alonso his first home victory as Chelsea manager and offered supporters plenty to be excited about ahead of the new Premier League campaign.

But the afternoon was also overshadowed by the divided reaction to Enzo Fernández, who returned to action amid speculation over his future.

Rogers Makes Instant Impact

Rogers needed just 11 minutes to make his mark.

The summer signing reacted quickest after João Pedro's initial effort was saved, finishing to put Chelsea ahead and giving the Stamford Bridge crowd an immediate glimpse of what he can bring to Alonso's attack.

[Chelsea FC +1]

It was an ideal beginning for Rogers, particularly with Chelsea entering the final stages of their preparations.

His movement and combination play with João Pedro and Cole Palmer also provided encouragement for Alonso.

Sociedad Hit Back

Chelsea could not maintain their advantage into half-time.

Real Sociedad grew into the contest and eventually levelled through Jon Mikel Aramburu, whose excellent volley punished a defensive lapse from the hosts.

[Chelsea FC +1]

The equaliser exposed one of the concerns Alonso will still need to address.

Chelsea's attacking play looked dangerous, but there were moments when their defensive structure appeared vulnerable.

With the competitive season approaching, that balance will be crucial.

João Pedro Takes Over

The second half belonged to João Pedro.

Chelsea regained the lead when Reece James delivered a cross for the Brazilian to head home, restoring the Blues' advantage.

João Pedro was not finished.

Later in the match, Malo Gusto found him with a through ball, and the striker calmly finished to complete his brace and secure the victory.

The two goals took his impressive pre-season tally even higher and strengthened his case to lead Chelsea's attack when the Premier League begins.

Enzo Fernández Gets Mixed Reception

While the result was positive, the biggest talking point away from the football was Fernández.

The midfielder came on as a second-half substitute and was met by a mixed reaction from Chelsea supporters, with some fans booing while others cheered him.

The response came amid continued reports linking him with a possible move to Manchester City. Chelsea had reportedly set a deadline for written bids and demanded a substantial fee, but no offer had arrived by the stated deadline.

[The Times +1]

Fernández also wore the captain's armband after coming on.

For Chelsea, the situation is uncomfortable. The club clearly want to move beyond the speculation, but the reaction inside Stamford Bridge showed that the issue has not completely disappeared.

Alonso Gets His First Stamford Bridge Win

The victory was significant for Alonso beyond simply ending pre-season on a positive note.

The Chelsea boss has repeatedly used a 3-4-3 system during his preparations, adopting a shape that was central to his success at Bayer Leverkusen. �

[Sky Sports]

Against Sociedad, the system produced plenty of attacking threat, particularly through the combination of Rogers, Palmer and João Pedro.

There were still defensive weaknesses, but Alonso now has a clearer idea of what his strongest attacking options can offer.

Chelsea Head Into the New Season With Momentum

Chelsea's final pre-season performance provided plenty of positives.

Rogers scored on his debut. João Pedro continued his remarkable scoring form. Palmer showed flashes of his creativity. And Alonso secured his first home victory.

But the Fernández situation and defensive issues remain matters to monitor.

Chelsea's Premier League campaign begins against Fulham on August 24, meaning Alonso now has a short window to make his final decisions and prepare his squad for competitive football.

For now, though, Chelsea can take confidence from a convincing final rehearsal.

João Pedro supplied the goals, Rogers delivered the dream debut and Alonso got his Stamford Bridge victory — but the Fernández question refuses to disappear.

Fan Debate

⚽ Goal: João Pedro or Rogers — who impressed you most?

🔥 Fire: Is João Pedro ready for a huge season?

😲 Shock: Were you surprised by the reaction to Fernández?

👍 Like: Is Alonso's 3-4-3 system the right approach?

💬 Comment: What is Chelsea's biggest strength heading into the new season?