Three Chelsea players who must impress in pre-season as Xabi Alonso signs in at Stamford Bridge
The Chelsea squad are about to get their pre-season under Xabi Alonso underway, and The Chelsea Chronicle have picked out three players who need to impress quickly this summer.
Despite Alonso already being announced as the new manager, it is only July 9 where the squad will return to pre-season, and get their first taste of what is demanded from the Spaniard.
The Blues will spend some time at Cobham before jetting off to Australia to kick off their friendlies, which will also take them to Asia before a return to Stamford Bridge.
Santos is one of Chelsea’s most-underrated players 🧩
Man United and Newcastle are interested.
Chelsea players who are under pressure to impress during pre-season
With transfer rumours linking plenty of first team players with a move away, there are plenty who are under pressure to immediately impress Alonso.
The Chelsea Chronicle have broken down three players who are needing strong showings early on with their futures at the club on the line.
Josh Acheampong
It seems like every big club in world football are interested in signing Josh Acheampong, however he has found regular opportunities hard to come by under Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior.
Alonso has already reported for the club to not sanction the sale of the Cobham graduate, although he will want to see signs of a player who can make a genuine contribution this season.
Alonso’s usual three-at-the-back formation would suit Acheampong perfectly due to his versatility, and it feels as if it his last chance to make it at Chelsea.
Andrey Santos
Andrey Santos has asked for more regular opportunities at Stamford Bridge. Now is the time for him to prove he deserves them.
Chelsea don’t see Santos as unsellable this summer, but will want to give him a fair chance at succeeding after investing in him from a young age.
With there still a chance that Enzo Fernandez leaves this summer, someone needs to step up and deliver, and the Brazilian is confident it can be him.
Jamie Gittens
After a nightmare first season at Stamford Bridge, the pressure is on Jamie Gittens to not be left by the wayside.
The Englishman impressed during pre-season 12 months ago, however failed to score a Premier League goal in the season which followed.
With Alejandro Garnacho linked with a move away from the club, it looks as if there is more optimism that Gittens will succeed, however he will be under pressure to prove it to Alonso this summer.
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