Every Chelsea signing from summer 2026 ranked from worst to best (one month later)
Chelsea spent heavily during the summer transfer window as Xabi Alonso reshaped his squad ahead of the Premier League campaign. Morgan Rogers arrived for big money, Maxence Lacroix to shore up defence, Emiliano Martínez, Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson brought experience and quality in key positions.
However, not every new arrival has enjoyed the same start with some not even making their debut yet. With the international break providing an opportunity to reflect, here is how Chelsea's summer signings rank after their first month at Stamford Bridge.
9. Emmanuel Emegha
Emegha has had a frustrating start, with a hamstring injury limiting his involvement after joining from Strasbourg. The striker has featured in pre-season but has yet to establish himself in competitive action, so therefore his impact is minimal. It is too early to judge his impact, although Chelsea hope he will score goals and be making an impact sooner rather than later.
That debut could come against Bournemouthif Joao Pedro's injury is more serious than initially thought
8. Marco Palestra
The wing-back arrived with considerable potential, offering versatility on either flank, and most likely signed as a starter. However, an injury has delayed his Chelsea career and another who has yet to make their debut for the club. His ranking will likely climb come the end of the season though.
7. Jordan Henderson
The experienced midfielder made his Chelsea debut against his former club Brentford, and it was one he would like to forget. Giving the ball away for the second, however his performance was largely promising out of the XI on the pitch.
His leadership and experience could be valuable in a relatively young squad, particularly in situations we do not see on the pitch. However, one appearance is not enough to judge whether he can consistently make a difference to the team’s performances.
6. Danny Welbeck
Welbeck made an immediate impact in the Carabao Cup, scoring three goals across his first two starts and showing he could provide a reliable attacking alternative. However, his limited influence against Brentford slowed that momentum, and he will need to raise his level with Emegha nearing a return.
5. Emi Martinez
It is fair to say I and a number of Chelsea fans think Martinez was a bad signing as he was brought in to provide greater reliability in goal, but the early returns have been mixed. He has conceded ten goals across his appearances, with some you can question was his fault.
The Argentine doesn’t feel me with much confidence, more than Robert Sanchez though.
4. Pep Chavarria
Chavarría has already been given opportunities at left-back, including a start against Brentford. His attacking instincts could prove useful, but Chelsea need greater consistency across their defensive line. That goes for every player with him not at fault
Time for the Spaniard to settle should be given, although his opening performances have made him preferred option over Hato.
3. Valentin Barco
Barco offers versatility and technical quality in midfield. He showed flashes of promise against Brentford and Leeds, getting involved in Chelsea's attacking play, but the team's struggles after the break overshadowed his contribution. He has the potential to become an important option as the season develops, but will need to improve his defensive game a lot more.
2. Maxence Lacroix
Lacroix has emerged as Chelsea’s strongest defensive performer, starting four of their opening five league matches. However, he cannot solve the team’s defensive problems alone.
His pace and physical presence give Alonso a valuable option at centre-back, but Chelsea’s struggles at the back have made it difficult for him to enjoy a completely convincing start.
1. Morgan Rogers
Rogers takes top spot after an excellent start to life at Chelsea.Easily the best transfer and, likely best overall, with his competition Joao Pedro and Cole Palmer.
His price tag brings enormous expectations, but his early output suggests Chelsea have acquired a player capable of making a major difference. Worth every penny!
