Chelsea handed five reasons for optimism under Xabi Alonso – Read Chelsea F.C.
Chelsea supporters have every reason to approach the new season with caution. The Blues finished tenth in the Premier League, exited the Champions League in the last 16 and suffered defeat in the FA Cup final last term.
However, optimism is beginning to return under Xabi Alonso. Chelsea have backed their new manager with the British-record £117million signing of Morgan Rogers, while several established players should enter the campaign with important roles.
Alonso still needs to improve an unbalanced squad and build consistency. Even so, these five factors provide genuine encouragement before the Premier League campaign begins.
Xabi Alonso gives Chelsea a clearer direction
Alonso has immediately focused on standards, mentality and collective responsibility. During his first Chelsea interview, he spoke about giving everything for the team and placing the group above individuals.
The Spaniard has since demanded hunger, passion and daily improvement from his players. His early message feels particularly important after a campaign disrupted by managerial changes and inconsistent performances. Chelsea have already seen Alonso take greater control over squad decisions, which should help create a clearer identity.
Rogers provides the clearest evidence of Chelsea backing Alonso’s vision. The 23-year-old chose Stamford Bridge after speaking directly with the manager and hearing how he would fit into the system.
The England international delivered 14 goals and 12 assists for Aston Villa last season. He brings power, Premier League experience and the ability to operate across several attacking positions.
Chelsea have several ways to use Rogers alongside Cole Palmer. He could begin on the left, play as one of two attacking midfielders or move deeper when Alonso changes shape.
Chelsea attack already contains proven quality
Joao Pedro gives Alonso a reliable goalscorer before another ball has been kicked. The Brazilian finished his first full Chelsea season with 20 goals and was voted the club’s Player of the Season by supporters.
Pedro also recorded 20 Premier League goal involvements, becoming only the sixth Chelsea player to reach that total during his debut league campaign. His mobility allows him to lead the line or drop into deeper areas when Palmer and Rogers attack beyond him.
Estevao Willian offers another reason for excitement. Injury interrupted his first season in England, but eight goals across all competitions highlighted his quality and confidence in decisive areas.
The winger remains one of Chelsea’s most gifted young players. A full pre-season may not be possible following his hamstring injury, although Alonso should eventually inherit a player capable of changing matches from either flank.
Moises Caicedo gives Xabi Alonso a strong foundation
Chelsea’s attacking talent will receive most of the attention, but Moises Caicedo remains the foundation of the team. The Ecuador international featured in every Champions League game and missed only five Premier League fixtures last season.
Caicedo made 50 appearances across all competitions and scored five goals. His defensive coverage, ball-winning and ability to progress possession should make him one of the first names in Alonso’s starting side.
Alonso must still improve Chelsea’s defensive organisation and decide which players belong in his long-term squad. Rogers will also face enormous pressure because of his transfer fee.
However, Chelsea now have a manager with a defined vision and an attacking group containing Rogers, Palmer, Pedro and Estevao. With Caicedo controlling midfield, the Blues possess enough quality to produce a significant improvement.
