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Alonso: Chelsea didn't need a reset - they just needed an update

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso stated that his squad required fine-tuning rather than an overhaul after he agreed to a four-year deal in May. The 44-year-old took charge following a chaotic term under previous managers Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior that saw the club finish 10th in the Premier League, marking their third absence from continental tournaments across four years.

Alonso noted that his initial objective involved reviewing the roster and deciding which players to keep and develop, expressing satisfaction with the path chosen so far.

Across his opening six fixtures across all competitions, Alonso has guided the Blues to two Premier League victories, one draw, and a loss, alongside two wins out of two in the Carabao Cup. He emphasized that building team consistency, resilience, and tactical assurance remains his focus ahead of an upcoming away clash against Brentford at Gtech Community Stadium.