Inside Xabi Alonso's first week at Chelsea with secret friendlies
Xabi Alonso has begun his tenure as Chelsea manager with a focus on improving squad physicality and team energy. The former Real Madrid manager is currently preparing for the upcoming Premier League season while settling into life in London.
Why it matters
Chelsea is a major global football club, and the transition to a new manager is a significant event for the Premier League landscape.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Xabi Alonso agreed a four-year deal to join Chelsea in May
Football reporter Published 14 July 2026 Xabi Alonso's start to pre-season has been likened to more of a Mauricio Pochettino blueprint than an Enzo Maresca one.
The 44-year-old has focused on improving the physicality of his squad in the early stages of his reign after Chelsea were outrun by their opponents in all but one of their Premier League matches last season.
Alonso's message to the players has been positive. While the former Real Madrid manager has been keen not to dwell on last season's shortcomings, his coaching at Cobham suggests he has been paying close attention to them.
"Soul, purpose and good energy" were among the key messages Alonso highlighted in his first in-house interview.
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