FIFA Club World Cup holders Chelsea stormed to their first Premier League victory of the season with a commanding 5-1 win over London rivals West Ham United on Friday night. Enzo Maresca’s side, who had stumbled in their opening fixtures, were ruthless in front of goal as they surged to the top of the table.

The game began chaotically when Cole Palmer pulled out injured in the warm-up, handing 17-year-old Estevão Willian his first league start. His error gifted Lucas Paquetá the opener for West Ham after just a few minutes, the Brazilian smashing in from distance. But Chelsea struck back quickly, with João Pedro heading home from close range before Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernández added goals to give the visitors a 3-1 lead at half-time.

The second half saw the Blues tighten their grip. Moisés Caicedo flicked in from a corner after a howler from Hammers goalkeeper Mads Hermansen, before Trevoh Chalobah completed the rout with Chelsea’s fifth. Despite West Ham’s substitutions and attempts to fight back, the Blues were in complete control and could have scored more before easing off late on. The emphatic win marked a statement performance for Chelsea as they look to mount a serious title challenge.