Xabi Alonso handed fresh Chelsea concern after 22-year-old’s poor display

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso faced growing concerns after his side suffered a convincing 3-0 defeat against Brentford on Friday night. The loss leaves Chelsea winless in three Premier League matches and seventh in the table. Summer signing Valentin Barco struggled during his first Premier League start in midfield alongside Jordan Henderson.

Brentford secured the victory with second-half goals from Jaidon Anthony, Igor Thiago, and Fabio Carvalho. Former Liverpool defender Steve Nicol criticized the 22-year-old Barco's performance on ESPN, questioning his readiness to start. Chelsea played the match without key midfielder Moises Caicedo.