In Premier League Matchday 7, Chelsea secured a 2-0 away victory over Everton. Following the match, Blues head coach Xabi Alonso spoke to Chelsea's official media.
Reporter: A crucial victory away at Everton today. First of all, could you provide an update on Emiliano Martínez?
Alonso: Yes, from what we understand at the moment, he was conscious when leaving the pitch and is currently undergoing precautionary examinations at the hospital; we need to remain patient and wait for further updates.
Reporter: How do you evaluate today's performance? Earning three points on the road carries immense significance.
Alonso: Yes, it was a great victory. The entire team delivered an excellent display—solid in our execution, rigorous in our attitude, and showing top-level professionalism. There were plenty of positives to take from today, and we truly needed a win of this nature. We had been longing for a clean sheet, and today we finally achieved it. We must use this performance as a foundation to keep moving forward.
Reporter: In today's match, which core tactical principles were executed particularly well?
Alonso: The players were very pragmatic; everyone understood that the objective wasn't simply to play attractive football, but to play effective football. Tonight we produced high-quality football, controlled the contest well, and got a lot of the fine details right. I think the players also relished those 'less glamorous' contested moments in the game. If you want to claim victories and achieve success, you have to embrace the other side of football.
Reporter: You referenced the clean sheet. From a psychological standpoint, how important is this shutout for the players?
Alonso: We still need more clean sheets. But securing our first clean sheet of the season is a great start, and moving forward we must keep striving for more; I believe we are capable of doing so.
Reporter: I wanted to ask about Pedro Neto. He bagged a brace, which should be his first double in a Chelsea shirt outside of a hat-trick. How would you assess his performance today?
Alonso: He was outstanding. While Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers didn't get on the scoresheet, in my eyes their contributions were equally brilliant. Rogers pulled out wider on the flank and delivered a very bright display. I'm delighted for Neto scoring the two goals.
Reporter: Mike Penders came off the bench to make his personal Premier League debut. Does that bring you pride? He also pulled off a brilliant save around ten minutes into his appearance.
Alonso: Mike accomplished his mission. He possesses great maturity and is remarkably brave. We will give him time to develop and continue polishing his game with the support of his teammates. I am genuinely happy for him.
