‘He Undermines Chelsea’ — Gary Neville Urges Xabi Alonso to Replace Robert Sanchez

Gary Neville has warned Xabi Alonso that Robert Sanchez could undermine Chelsea’s progress after the goalkeeper endured a difficult performance in the Blues’ 3–2 victory over Fulham.

Chelsea opened Alonso’s Premier League reign with three points at Craven Cottage, but their attacking quality was almost overshadowed by another uncertain display from Sanchez.

The Spanish goalkeeper was involved in both of Fulham’s goals, leaving Neville questioning whether Chelsea can challenge at the top with him as their No.1.

Sanchez mistakes create unnecessary problems

Chelsea made an outstanding start when João Pedro scored inside the opening minute, but their advantage disappeared when Sanchez was beaten by Josh King.

The goalkeeper was unable to keep out a shot that Chelsea would have expected him to deal with, allowing Fulham back into the contest.

Chelsea eventually restored their advantage and went on to win 3–2, but Sanchez's performance remained a major talking point after the final whistle.

Neville questions Chelsea's goalkeeper

Neville had already identified the goalkeeper position as an area Chelsea could improve before the match.

After watching Sanchez struggle against Fulham, the former Manchester United defender went further, arguing that the goalkeeper could undermine the work Alonso is doing elsewhere in the team.

Neville believes Chelsea have built a much stronger spine and could potentially compete near the top of the Premier League, but he questioned whether Sanchez is good enough to complete that picture.

He also suggested that a goalkeeper of Emiliano Martínez's calibre would give Alonso greater security if such an option became available.

Chelsea's attack gives Alonso something to celebrate

The goalkeeper problems did not stop Chelsea from producing plenty of attacking encouragement.

João Pedro, Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers all played major roles in the victory, with the three attackers combining to give Alonso an exciting foundation for his new-look side.

Rogers marked his competitive Chelsea debut with a goal, while Palmer produced a goal and assist. João Pedro also continued his strong start to life at Stamford Bridge.

That attacking quality ultimately proved decisive.

But the fact Chelsea conceded twice after taking control of the match will concern Alonso.

A decision Alonso may have to make

The Chelsea manager now faces an interesting selection question.

Sanchez started the opening match and remains Alonso's first-choice goalkeeper for now.

Chelsea's official team sheet confirmed him between the posts for the Fulham clash.

However, if similar mistakes continue, pressure for a change could increase quickly.

Alonso is attempting to build a Chelsea side capable of competing with the Premier League's strongest teams. Defensive reliability will be essential, particularly if Chelsea are expected to challenge Arsenal and the other leading sides.

A goalkeeper who inspires confidence behind the defence could therefore become an important part of Alonso's next phase of squad building.

Three points — but a warning for Chelsea

Chelsea ultimately achieved what mattered most: three points from Alonso's first Premier League match.

Yet the 3–2 scoreline also exposed weaknesses that the new manager will not want to ignore.

The attacking signs were extremely encouraging, but Chelsea made life unnecessarily difficult for themselves.

Neville's warning therefore comes at an interesting moment.

Alonso has inherited a team with plenty of attacking potential and has already made an impressive start. But if Sanchez's inconsistency continues, the goalkeeper position could become one of the biggest questions surrounding Chelsea's season.

Chelsea won at Fulham. Alonso got his perfect start on paper. But Neville believes the goalkeeper position could still undermine everything the new manager is trying to build.