Chelsea Player Ratings Shine in Controversial Fulham Win

Chelsea player ratings soared as the Blues secured a vital 2-0 victory over Fulham in a heated West London derby at Stamford Bridge. The clash, however, was marred by more VAR drama, overshadowing standout performances from summer signings Joao Pedro and Estevao.

Chelsea Player Ratings: Joao Pedro and Estevao Lead the Way

Chelsea player ratings were highlighted by the impact of new arrivals Joao Pedro and Estevao. Joao Pedro opened the scoring in first-half stoppage time, powering home a header from Enzo Fernandez’s precise corner. Estevao, meanwhile, injected creativity and pace down the wings, troubling Fulham’s backline throughout the encounter.

VAR Takes Centre Stage—Again

Despite Chelsea’s improved gameplay, the match narrative was heavily influenced by refereeing calls. Fulham thought they had drawn first blood when Joshua King slotted home in the 21st minute, but VAR intervened. Referee Robert Jones ruled out the goal for a foul on Trevoh Chalobah by Rodrigo Muniz in the build-up, a decision that infuriated the visitors and their traveling fans.

The controversy continued in the second half. Chelsea were awarded a penalty in the 55th minute after Ryan Sessegnon was judged to have handled the ball in the box. Yet replays suggested the ball may have touched Joao Pedro’s hand seconds earlier, intensifying Fulham’s frustration. Enzo Fernandez coolly converted the spot-kick to double Chelsea’s lead, further fueling the “2-0 to the referee” chants from the away end.

Unbeaten Start for Maresca’s Blues

Under Enzo Maresca, Chelsea maintained their unbeaten start to the Premier League season. The Blues grew stronger as the match progressed, with midfield maestro Enzo Fernandez dictating play and solid defensive efforts from Chalobah and Levi Colwill repelling Fulham’s advances.

Chelsea Player Ratings: Full Breakdown

– **Djordje Petrovic (7/10):** Confident in goal, handled Fulham’s few chances with composure.
– **Malo Gusto (7/10):** Provided width and defensive solidity.
– **Trevoh Chalobah (8/10):** Key defensive interventions and composure under pressure.
– **Levi Colwill (7/10):** Strong in aerial duels, kept Fulham’s forwards in check.
– **Ben Chilwell (7/10):** Supported attacks and tracked back effectively.
– **Enzo Fernandez (8/10):** Dictated tempo, claimed an assist and converted penalty.
– **Conor Gallagher (7/10):** Energetic box-to-box display.
– **Estevao (8/10):** Electric on the wing, instrumental in Chelsea’s attacking play.
– **Joao Pedro (9/10):** Match-winner, tireless and clinical in front of goal.
– **Raheem Sterling (6/10):** Flashes of quality but a quiet game overall.
– **Nicolas Jackson (6/10):** Struggled to find space, but pressed well.

Substitutes

– **Noni Madueke (6/10):** Injected energy late on.
– **Carney Chukwuemeka (6/10):** Helped see out the victory.

VAR Overshadows West London Derby

The Chelsea player ratings reflect a team growing in confidence, but the VAR controversies cannot be ignored. Fulham’s disallowed goal and the questionable penalty decision were pivotal moments, casting a shadow over what should have been a celebration of emerging talent and tactical progress under Maresca.

Looking Ahead: Can Chelsea Maintain Momentum?

Chelsea’s summer signings have injected much-needed flair and determination. With Joao Pedro and Estevao settling quickly and Enzo Fernandez orchestrating play, the Blues look set for a promising campaign. However, reliance on fortuitous decisions is not a sustainable strategy. Maresca will demand further improvements as the season unfolds.

For more in-depth coverage and updates on Chelsea and the Premier League, visit for more news.

Opinion: Chelsea’s Win Raises Questions Despite Progress

While Chelsea fans will be delighted with the win and the stellar performances from their new stars, the recurring VAR controversies remain a blight on the Premier League. The Blues deserved credit for their composed display, but the match leaves plenty to debate about officiating standards and the role of technology in football.