The Evening Standard's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Jose Mourinho was left stunned as Chelsea crashed 4‑2 to an understrength New York Red Bulls side.
The Blues took the lead last night through Loic Remy but fell apart after the break even though captain John Terry, Eden Hazard, Diego Costa, Cesar Azpilicueta, Oscar and £8million summer signing Asmir Begovic were all on the pitch in New York.
Manager Mourinho could not understand how his team were beaten so easily and said: “I am surprised by the frailties. We had lots of frailties. I was surprised that we were not good enough in the second half to cope with that.”
Begovic had a nightmare debut, shipping four goals with one of them scored by 16‑year-old Tyler Adams.
Five things we learnt from Chelsea's defeat to New York Red Bulls
Mourinho put the goalkeeper’s problems down to pre-season exertions. He said: “He was very tired, the same as Thibaut Courtois. In the first half Courtois made a mistake with the ball at his feet.
“Begovic in the second half was not sharp in his reactions but it’s a consequence of being tired from training. I’m so happy to have him and in Saturday’s game against PSG he will start.”
