Xabi Alonso has made it clear that the changes required at Chelsea this summer were more about an "upgrade" than a total reset of the club's direction. The 44‑year‑old former midfielder signed a four‑year deal in May, stepping into a role that had been left in disarray after the Blues finished a disappointing 10th place in the Premier League. The previous season saw the departure of both Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior amid a chaotic campaign at Stamford Bridge, and for the third time in four years the club missed out on European competition. In an exclusive interview with Sky Sports, Alonso explained his philosophy: "Not a reset – it was an update, I would say.
To change or to take decisions in another direction." He emphasized that his primary focus was the existing squad, assessing where each player was in his career, what roles they could fill, and how the team could improve collectively. "My main concern is the squad, the team, the players that we have, at what stage of their careers they are, and what moments we want to bring them into. Those were the important decisions and analyses before I arrived. Once we agreed on a direction, it was about making the right choices," he said.
Alonso noted that some decisions have already been taken, while others are still pending, but he expressed confidence in the overall plan. "Now it's competition time. It's not about improving in theory; it's about working hard with the group we have, learning from both mistakes and successes, and being in that moment," he added.
Since taking the helm, Alonso has overseen six matches across all competitions, achieving two league wins, one draw, one defeat, and a perfect record of two victories in the Carabao Cup. The next challenge is a West London derby against Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium on Friday night, a game that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
When asked about his expectations, Alonso warned against chasing perfection: "If I look for perfection, I will always be frustrated. What I'm after is a good level of continuity and solidity – a team that knows its game plan, exudes confidence, and maintains conviction against any opponent." He acknowledged that progress can be uneven: "We are in the process. Some steps will be quicker, others slower, but we are working to instill that belief that when we step onto the pitch we know exactly what we are going to do." He stressed that his focus remains on his own squad rather than the opposition: "The early days are about the games we play. I am not preoccupied with other teams; I am fully concentrated on my players, the development we need, and the improvements we must make." Alonso also highlighted the intensity of the Premier League: "We need to learn quickly because the competition is ferocious.
I am sure the Chelsea of the first day of the season and the Chelsea of the last day will be different – and better. The team will improve week by week, game by game." When pressed about when supporters could expect tangible results, he replied, "It's not for me to answer. I prefer to let the work speak for itself. Everything takes time in football, and time will tell." A key storyline ahead of the Brentford match is the fitness of Brazilian forward João Pedro.
Despite withdrawing from the Brazil squad due to injury, Pedro remains in Alonso's thoughts. "In terms of injuries and the squad, we are having the last training session on Friday," Alonso said.
"No one is ruled out. I remain cautious and we will see on Friday if he's ready to play.
We will make a decision then." When asked directly about Pedro's injury status, Alonso gave a succinct "No." He added that playing for Chelsea on Friday and then missing Brazil is a possibility, noting, "He has moved on from the summer, he has moved on from the World Cup. He has shown desire and determination for a great season so far.
The summer is far away now. He will be in the Brazil squad in the future – I am pretty sure of that." Alonso's approach reflects a broader trend in modern football management: rather than dismantling a squad entirely, many coaches opt for strategic tweaks, targeted signings, and a clear tactical identity. By focusing on incremental improvements, he hopes to restore Chelsea's competitive edge and re‑establish the club as a regular contender for European places.
In summary, Xabi Alonso sees Chelsea's situation as an opportunity for an evolutionary change rather than a revolutionary overhaul. He is concentrating on the squad's current strengths, addressing weaknesses through measured decisions, and fostering a culture of confidence and consistency.
With a modest start to his tenure and a crucial derby looming, the next few weeks will be decisive in shaping the narrative of his Chelsea project.