Chelsea is not yet perfect, Xabi Alonso still delivers a firm statement

Chelsea still has a lot to sort out ahead of the new campaign, yet Xabi Alonso asserts he has no concerns. The Spanish manager trusts that the squad will reach optimal condition and be competitive right from the Premier League's first matchday.

Chelsea is still in the process of refinement under manager Xabi Alonso following the preseason period. Despite many positions needing adjustment and the squad not yet being fully assembled, the Spanish coach stated he is not overly concerned. His remarks at a press conference in Hong Kong revealed Alonso's strong belief in the direction the team is taking ahead of the 2026/27 season.

Acknowledging the team is not yet in ideal form, Alonso believes the most important thing is for Chelsea to be ready when the Premier League officially kicks off in about two and a half weeks. He also hinted at his confidence in the team's competitiveness. That was the most notable message from the Spanish manager as Chelsea enters the decisive phase of the transfer window.

"We want to have a successful season," Alonso stated. "Let's see where we are in May. But certainly, we want to give the impression that we are capable of competing and deserving to fight for important goals throughout the season. Time will tell, but that is our objective."

Not only setting long-term goals, Alonso also expressed satisfaction with the team's spirit during the preparation process. He emphasized: "I have faith, motivation, and a very positive feeling about the team and the players regarding what we want to achieve. The goal is that when we enter the Premier League season, the whole squad will feel ready." The 44-year-old coach believes Chelsea will have enough foundation to make a favorable start.

That confidence comes amid a context where Chelsea still has many issues to resolve, especially in defense. After signing Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace on a contract running until 2032 for a fee of around £52 million, the Stamford Bridge club now has up to ten center-backs. However, Alonso insists he only wants to keep "four or five" names when the transfer window closes.

According to current plans, Lacroix is almost certain to have a spot in the squad alongside Levi Colwill and young talent Josh Acheampong. Conversely, Benoit Badiashile, Axel Disasi, and Trevoh Chalobah are among those likely to leave Chelsea, while the futures of Wesley Fofana, Tosin Adarabioyo, Mamadou Sarr, and Aaron Anselmino remain uncertain. Alonso also admitted: "Certainly, with the players we have and those who will soon return to training at Cobham – although I would like more time to work with them, that's how it is – I believe Chelsea will have a good start." That statement shows the confidence of the Spanish strategist, despite the squad overhaul still underway.