Chelsea’s new-look attack under Xabi Alonso is already developing a reputation for starting matches at a blistering pace, with the attacking partnership involving João Pedro and Morgan Rogers—popularly dubbed “JP Morgan” by supporters—playing a major role.
The Blues have repeatedly found the net early in Premier League matches this season, highlighting the confidence and attacking intent Alonso has brought to Stamford Bridge.
The clearest example came on the opening weekend against Fulham, when João Pedro struck after just 31 seconds. The Brazilian latched onto Cole Palmer’s flick and calmly finished to give Chelsea the perfect start in Alonso’s first Premier League match as manager. The goal was also the fastest scored on the opening weekend in Premier League history.
Chelsea were at it again against Brighton. Roméo Lavia opened the scoring after only four minutes, before Pedro Neto doubled the advantage in the 14th minute. João Pedro then added a third in the 32nd minute as Chelsea raced into a commanding lead before eventually winning 4-3.
The trend continued against Hull City on Saturday. João Pedro provided the assist for Morgan Rogers to fire Chelsea ahead in the seventh minute, giving fans another glimpse of the chemistry developing between the two forwards. João Pedro later completed the scoring for Chelsea with a 66th-minute equaliser in the 2-2 draw.
While Chelsea's defensive problems have prevented some of these fast starts from translating into comfortable victories, their attacking numbers remain encouraging. João Pedro and Morgan Rogers are both among the Premier League's early-season leading scorers, with three league goals each according to the latest standings.
For Chelsea supporters, the message is becoming clear: the Blues are not waiting around to make an impact.
With João Pedro, Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer combining in attack, the “JP Morgan” era is beginning to give Chelsea a dangerous attacking identity—one capable of putting opponents under pressure from the opening whistle.
Chelsea are scoring early. Now the challenge for Alonso is making sure they finish games just as strongly.