Xabi Alonso's opening fixture as Chelsea boss revolved around four forwards - an established option, one facing ongoing issues and possible exit, a rising prospect, and another who may arrive soon.

The standout performer was Joao Pedro, who netted a rapid nine-minute hat-trick to secure a 6-4 victory over Western Sydney Wanderers, underscoring the quality gap between top-flight English sides and A-League opposition.

Perhaps motivated by missing out on Brazil's World Cup roster, the attacker displayed sharp finishing along with strength and speed during the lively encounter at Accor Stadium.

Alonso praised Joao Pedro as very hungry and eager for a strong campaign ahead.

Overall the display from Chelsea remained untidy and incomplete, as the squad continued adapting to travel fatigue.

Beyond Joao Pedro few players shone brightly, though Dastan Satpaev stood out positively.

The 17-year-old netted the opening goal of Alonso's tenure in fine style after just six minutes.

Curiously the Kazakhstan striker featured as a trialist since his transfer from FC Kairat cannot finalize until 12 August.

In comparison fellow starter Liam Delap continued to falter, much like his prior outings since arriving for 30 million pounds from Ipswich last summer.

Delap looks low on assurance and might depart, as Chelsea progress discussions to bring in Danny Welbeck, aged 35, for added know-how.

Welbeck has settled personal terms with optimism at the club that an agreement can be reached, even as Brighton stay silent on the matter.

Chelsea are also pursuing midfielder Jordan Henderson, aged 36, from Brentford to inject experience and guidance following a tough 2025-26 term.

When questioned on adding the veteran pair Alonso noted the need for balance and a full squad to build a strong side under their clear plan.

Apart from striker storylines, with Emmanuel Emegha and Nicolas Jackson sidelined by injury, this offered only an initial look at Alonso's Chelsea approach.

Satpaev aims to become the first Kazakh to feature in the Premier League.

Back home he is a major name who has represented his country and drew supporters from Kazakhstan to both the open session and Tuesday's match in Sydney.

Fast and incisive inside the area while compact in build, Satpaev draws frequent comparisons to former Argentina and Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero in style.

Queried on potential first-team minutes this season or a possible loan, Alonso said decisions remain ahead.

I knew Dastan from Almaty, Alonso added, having encountered him with Real Madrid last term.

He poses a goal threat, attacks central areas effectively and excels as a forward arriving from wide positions.

He is powerful, speedy and has made a strong impression on me.

The ex-Liverpool midfielder, active on the sideline, deployed the 4-2-3-1 setup used by Enzo Maresca during his Chelsea tenure this time last year.

With several players still away post-World Cup, including record signing Morgan Rogers for 117 million pounds, academy talents received chances.

Midfield group Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli, Reggie Walsh and Reggie Watson performed well, the last of whom completed the full match.

Nicoll-Jazuli and Watson, both 16, controlled midfield for extended spells while 17-year-old Walsh shone further forward.

Alonso had voiced surprise beforehand at the strong training showings from the seven academy additions.

Landon Emenalo, 18, also received a notable role with no other left-backs available.

The sole senior player besides Joao Pedro to impress notably was winger Jamie Gittens, who scored his third goal in three pre-season games after two in closed-door friendlies.