Jorrel Hato has admitted Chelsea must improve defensively before travelling to Arsenal after conceding three times in their dramatic victory over Brighton.
Xabi Alonso’s side have made a perfect start to the season, but their 4-3 win last weekend exposed an issue ahead of Sunday’s trip to the Emirates.
Hato believes Chelsea’s attacking threat is clear. Keeping opponents out is where the next improvement must come.
Hato identifies Chelsea issue before Arsenal
The Netherlands international has featured in all three competitive matches under Alonso so far, starting the Premier League victories over Fulham and Brighton.
Chelsea raced into a three-goal lead against Brighton before eventually surviving a remarkable fightback to win 4-3.
Speaking to Chelsea’s official website, Hato acknowledged that conceding three was something the Blues needed to address.
He said: “You want to win 4-0, not 4-3.”
That warning feels particularly relevant with Arsenal next.
The defending champions have opened their Premier League campaign with consecutive victories and are yet to concede, while Chelsea have already allowed five goals across their first two league matches.
Hato nevertheless remains confident in Chelsea’s attacking quality.
He praised the connection developing between Cole Palmer, Joao Pedro and Morgan Rogers, who have combined for nine goal contributions across the opening two league fixtures.
Chelsea therefore arrive at the Emirates knowing goals have not been difficult to find.
The bigger question is whether Alonso can tighten the other end of the pitch quickly enough.
Hato believes Sunday gives Chelsea an opportunity to demonstrate that progress against the champions.
