Xabi Alonso urges patience for key new Chelsea signing
Xabi Alonso sat down for his pre-match press conference of the season speaking on all things Chelsea ahead of their Premier League opener against Fulham on Monday.
Alonso discussed all things Chelsea, including his close relationship with former Liverpool and Real Madrid teammate Álvaro Arbeloa, who will be in the opposite dugout, as well as several key Chelsea players. One of those was new signing Morgan Rogers.
When asked about Morgan Rogers and his late arrival, the Spanish manager urged patience, insisting that expectations should be tempered as the England international adapts and finds his form.
Lets see. We will check, we will assess, but for sure because of the World Cup they came a little bit later and they would need maybe a little bit more time, but they are for sure selectable for the line-up.
The attacking midfielder is expected to start on the left side of the attack despite his shortened pre-season, with Cole Palmer operating on the opposite flank. The numbered of minutes will likely be dependent on the result and form, however a start is anticipated. We have predicted a three-man central defence, with the wing-backs providing the width and Rogers and Palmer given freedom to roam behind the striker.
Speaking on the Chelsea squad
The manager was full of praise for the remaining members of his squad as journalists put a series of questions to him during his press conference.
The main question centred on Enzo Fernandez’s availability, with Alonso confirming that the midfielder will be ready for Monday’s opener. The Spaniard also refused to speculate on Fernandez’s future should Manchester City make a move for him during the final ten days of the transfer window.
Enzo is a Chelsea player. He's a top, top player. He's training really well since he started 10 days ago with the team, very integrated. We are happy with him and he's getting ready for Monday.
Alonso was then asked about several other members of his squad, with Reece James, Levi Colwill and Marco Palestra all receiving plenty of praise. The Chelsea boss highlighted his captain’s quality and versatility across multiple positions, while also expressing his admiration for Palestra’s ability to use either foot. Colwill, meanwhile, was backed to play a key role after returning from an injury-hit campaign last season.
A positive pre-season has allowed Alonso the chance to smile ahead of his Premier League managerial debut
