Chelsea may have suffered their first Premier League defeat of the 2026/27 season against Arsenal, but the Blues still created a piece of league history at the Emirates Stadium.
Xabi Alonso’s side became the first team in Premier League history to score inside the opening five minutes of each of their first three matches of a season. The record was extended when Morgan Rogers put Chelsea ahead against Arsenal after just 77 seconds.
Rogers’ early strike appeared to give Chelsea a strong start in Sunday’s London derby, but Arsenal responded to claim a 2-1 victory and maintain their perfect start to the campaign.
Kai Havertz equalised for the hosts in the 25th minute before Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard completed the comeback shortly after half-time. Chelsea created opportunities to level the score, but goalkeeper David Raya made important saves to preserve Arsenal’s advantage.
The result ended Chelsea’s winning start under Alonso, who had guided the club to victories over Fulham and Brighton in their opening two league fixtures. Despite the setback, Chelsea remain fourth with six points after three matches.
However, the defeat also highlighted a defensive concern. Chelsea have now conceded in 19 consecutive Premier League matches, continuing a run that dates back to last season. The club’s own pre-match statistics showed their previous clean sheet came against Brentford in January.
The contrasting statistics underline Chelsea’s early-season story: an attack capable of producing quick goals, but a defence that continues to struggle to keep opponents out.
Arsenal, meanwhile, have won all three of their league matches and remain level on nine points with Manchester City at the top of the table.
Chelsea will now look to address their defensive weaknesses while maintaining their impressive attacking start as the season progresses.
