Xabi Alonso's Chelsea have scored freely, but they've also conceded 12 goals in five games, the most in the league, and the cracks showed in a 3-0 loss at Brentford. With a leaky defence, a midfield short on control after the Enzo Fernández and Andrey Santos sales, and a Rogers, Palmer and João Pedro attack that is a joy to watch, the team is gifted but lopsided. So what is Alonso actually building, and can he find the balance before the season slips away?
Former Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero has expressed his admiration for Chelsea playmaker Cole Palmer, describing the England international as spectacular. The Argentine legend also shared his thoughts on the recent arrivals at Stamford Bridge under manager Xabi Alonso, noting the importance of building a solid defensive structure to support an excellent attacking lineup.
Chelsea have been dealt another frustrating injury blow during the international break after Jamie Gittens was forced off with an ankle problem playing for England Under-21s. The attacker will now return to Stamford Bridge for further medical tests, adding to the mounting selection headaches for Xabi Alonso ahead of the all-important Premier League restart next weekend.
Chelsea winger Estevao has spoken out regarding his lack of regular playing time under head coach Xabi Alonso following his return to international duty with Brazil. The teenager has found starting opportunities difficult to come by at Stamford Bridge this season, but he insists his primary objective is to remain patient and prove his worth.
Jamie Redknapp has urged Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso to find a starting role for Estevao following a dismal defeat at Brentford. The Brazilian wonderkid has been starved of minutes this season, prompting fears he could look to leave Stamford Bridge in January if his situation remains unchanged.
Joe Cole and Glenn Murray believe Xabi Alonso sent a pointed message to the Chelsea hierarchy during their dismal defeat to Brentford. By introducing a 16-year-old academy prospect while chasing the game, the Blues boss highlighted a glaring lack of depth following a chaotic transfer window.
Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso expressed bitter disappointment after watching his side collapse to a 3-0 derby defeat at Brentford. The Spanish manager insisted playing for only 45 minutes is not enough, while debutant Jordan Henderson endured a miserable return to his former club.
Xabi Alonso's Chelsea suffered a disastrous 3-0 away defeat to Brentford on Friday evening. After a tight first half, the Blues' defensive frailties were exposed once again. The hosts capitalised on poor marking to open the scoring from a corner, before two late goals sealed a historic victory that leaves the visitors searching for urgent solutions.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has explained the reasons behind captain Reece James and forward Joao Pedro missing Friday's Premier League trip to Brentford. James suffered a fresh hamstring setback after last weekend's draw, while Pedro is sidelined following a blistering start to the campaign. The Blues were forced to adapt their squad to cover these significant absences for the clash.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has welcomed a significant shift in the club's hierarchy, describing the exit of Todd Boehly as an 'important day' for the Stamford Bridge outfit. The Spanish tactician believes the move to grant Clearlake Capital full control provides much-needed clarity as the Blues enter a new phase of their long-term project.
The Todd Boehly era at Chelsea has reached a sudden and definitive conclusion after the American businessman agreed to sell his stake in the club. Private equity firm Clearlake Capital has moved to acquire the shares of both Boehly and Mark Walter, effectively ending the multi-headed ownership structure that has defined the Blues since 2022.