Overview
- Chelsea formally hired Xabi Alonso on a four-year contract and he has led a structured pre-season programme to introduce his tactical blueprint.
- Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez says Alonso’s calm, measured approach has boosted his confidence and that the squad is slowly integrating new ideas.
- Pre-season results have been mixed, with a 3-0 win over AC Milan and a 3-3 draw with Johor Darul Ta’zim used to test different lineups and fitness.
- The club is treating the absence of European fixtures as an advantage that will allow weekly preparation and a sharper focus on league performance.
- Chelsea enter the season under pressure after a turbulent 2025–26 campaign with multiple managerial changes and a 10th-place finish, and immediate progress and stability are being prioritised.