Chelsea opens 2026/27 season at Fulham with Alonso as head coach

Xabi Alonso will begin his tenure as Chelsea's head coach on August 24, when the team faces Fulham in a west London derby. This match will be part of the Premier League 2026/27 season, with Chelsea's first home game scheduled for August 29 against Brighton. The schedule includes key matches against champions Arsenal on September 5 and a series of challenging fixtures in October and December. Chelsea aims to improve on last season's mid-table finish and secure a Champions League spot.