Secret friendlies and promoting youngsters - Alonso's first week at Chelsea
Chelsea's entire pre-season is already mapped out by new boss Xabi Alonso, keen to make an early impact on his players before the season begins.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"Soul, purpose and good energy were among the key messages Alonso highlighted in his first in-house interview."
— Xabi Alonso , Athlete
"We want to be careful with him."
— Xabi Alonso , Athlete
"He wants to be fit."
— Xabi Alonso , Athlete
Key People
Former Liverpool defender and potential new manager for Fulham.
A 25-year-old midfielder from Chelsea, Argentina.
Estevao Willian is a young footballer participating in Chelsea's pre-season training.
Marc Cucurella is a full-back for Chelsea and a Spanish national team player.
Xabi Alonso is a former footballer and current manager known for his success in football both as a player and coach.
Locations
All Coverage
Chelsea's entire pre-season is already mapped out by new boss Xabi Alonso, keen to make an early impact on his players before the season begins.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
'To have a good team, we need a great Cole' - Alonso on Palmer
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso praises Cole Palmer's "responsibility, maturity and freedom" after a goal and an assist from the playmaker seals a 3-2 victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage. In Alonso's first Premier League match in charge, the Spaniard insists his new squad can achieve "special things" this season.
August 24, 2026 at 10:06 PMPalmer impresses as Chelsea edge past Fulham to give Alonso first win
Cole Palmer scores and sets up Joao Pedro as Chelsea give Xabi Alonso a winning start against Alvaro Arbeloa's Fulham at Craven Cottage in the Premier League.
August 24, 2026 at 09:53 PMArbeloa v Alonso: Benitez on his former players turned managers
Former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez on his former players Xabi Alonso and Alvaro Arbeloa who face each other as managers on Monday when Fulham host Chelsea.
August 24, 2026 at 06:59 AMSimeone would welcome Alvarez back to training amid Barca row
Diego Simeone says he will do everything he can to make Julian Alvarez feel important at Atletico Madrid, after confirming the Argentina international will miss Saturday’s match against Sevilla.
August 28, 2026 at 12:37 PM'Up front next week?' Maresca's Guehi gamble pays off
Rather than playing safe in selecting his Manchester City side for the first time in the Premier League, Enzo Maresca made a bold choice in midfield. Ultimately, it paid off.
August 23, 2026 at 07:13 PMThree reasons Chelsea could challenge for title - and one they may not
While Chelsea's front three produced a sparkling display in their win over Fulham, goalkeeper Robert Sanchez remains a major concern.
August 24, 2026 at 10:54 PM