Chelsea Hit Five Past Struggling West Ham

Chelsea swept aside West Ham United with a resounding 5-1 victory, piling pressure on Hammers boss Graham Potter after a torrid start to the new Premier League season. It follows last weekend’s 3-0 defeat at Sunderland, meaning Potter’s side have conceded eight goals in just two matches – the worst defensive record in the club’s top-flight history at this stage.

Former England midfielder Jamie Redknapp was scathing in his post-match assessment, describing West Ham’s defending as “scandalous” after the visitors shipped five goals inside 58 minutes. Chelsea were without key playmaker Cole Palmer, who pulled out during the warm-up with a groin injury, but still had far too much quality for their London rivals.

It all started brightly for West Ham when Lucas Paquetá thundered in a long-range effort to give them an early lead. However, Chelsea quickly found their rhythm. João Pedro levelled with a header before Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernández struck from close range to turn the game on its head before half-time. The second half saw further misery for debutant goalkeeper Mads Hermansen, who flapped at a corner allowing Moisés Caicedo to score, before Trevoh Chalobah added a fifth from another set piece.

Chelsea supporters took great delight in taunting their former manager with chants of “there’s only one Graham Potter.” Since taking charge of West Ham in January, Potter has overseen just five wins in 20 Premier League matches – a record that leaves serious question marks over his tenure.

Criticism Mounts on West Ham

Redknapp questioned the players’ commitment, suggesting the current squad “looks destined for a relegation fight” unless major reinforcements are brought in. He also singled out Hermansen’s shaky display, hinting that Alphonse Areola may need to be recalled to restore confidence at the back.

Club captain Jarrod Bowen admitted the team must take collective responsibility: “It’s not just the defenders – all of us need to work harder. As captain, I’m furious with how the first two weeks have gone. We’ve got to look in the mirror and have some honest conversations as a group.”

Maresca: Chelsea Not Just About Palmer

Despite Palmer’s absence, Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca was quick to dismiss claims that his side are overly reliant on the England star. “Of course, with Cole we are a much stronger team, but we proved last season that we can achieve results without him. The squad has quality in all areas,” he insisted.

Chelsea’s emphatic win underlines their attacking depth and provides a timely reminder of their ambitions this season. Fans can follow the latest ticket availability for upcoming matches on our Chelsea page.