Xabi Alonso’s Chelsea Debut & Transfer News

Alonso Confirms Intention to Keep Enzo Fernandez

Freshly unveiled as the Blues’ new manager, Xabi Alonso said he wants to retain Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez despite the player’s impending World Cup semi‑final against England. Fernandez, valued at a £120 million asking price, has been linked with Real Madrid and was open to a move earlier this week. Chelsea previously denied pursuing the 25‑year‑old last week, leaving him with no confirmed suitors. When pressed, Alonso answered “yes” to keeping the player and hinted that they had spoken privately, keeping the details between them.

Alonso’s stance on Fernandez comes as part of his first wide‑ranging news conference since leaving Real Madrid in January. He also addressed the club’s recent transfer setbacks, indicating that the team’s sporting directors are aligned on future plans despite the transfer window challenges.

Nicolas Jackson Set for Pre‑Season Tour

Striker Nicolas Jackson will rejoin the Chelsea squad for at least the club’s pre‑season tour of Australia and Asia. Bayern Munich decided against turning his loan into a permanent deal, prompting his return to west London. Alonso expressed excitement, stating, “Nico Jackson is joining the tour in Asia and we are looking forward to him working with us.” The move signals Jackson’s reintegration after a loan spell that saw him gain valuable experience abroad.

Jackson’s inclusion underscores Alonso’s desire to have a full squad for the upcoming preparations. The manager highlighted the importance of having key attacking options ready as the team builds toward the new season.

Alejandro Garnacho Remains on Loan

Winger Alejandro Garnacho has not reported for training under Alonso, as an agreement exists for him to stay away while he seeks a transfer. Italian club Roma is among the clubs monitoring the player’s situation. The Spanish side is allowing Garnacho to find a new club, indicating the manager’s willingness to lend out players who may not feature in his plans. This approach reflects a broader squad‑building strategy aimed at optimizing the group ahead of the campaign.

By letting Garnacho pursue other opportunities, Alonso signals a focus on those who fit his tactical vision. The move also frees up a spot for a potential new signing or a returning talent from the academy.

Background: Recent Chelsea Turnovers and Squad Moves

Chelsea have endured a turbulent period, with Enzo Maresca departing in January and his replacement, Liam Rosenior, sacked after less than four months. Alonso entered the Drake Suite, calling it a “privilege and honour” to lead a club celebrated by past title‑winning managers. The new boss has already begun training a sizable group, including Cole Palmer, Joao Pedro and Levi Colwill at Cobham, while only eight club players are away at the World Cup. He cited the club’s history, the current squad and the opportunity to work under new ownership as key reasons for his move.

Alonso’s excitement centers on creating a bond with supporters and delivering success on the pitch. He believes the foundations are already in place and stressed the need for the right decisions to build a competitive mentality. The recent upheaval has given the manager a clean slate to implement his philosophy.

Alonso’s Vision for a Competitive Chelsea

His overarching aim is to secure Champions League qualification, which is the club’s minimum requirement each season. Alonso acknowledged that reaching that goal will require many things to go right, but he is prepared to be part of the process. He emphasized that his responsibility is how the team plays, how they see themselves and how they approach each match. Looking forward, he mentioned the squad’s early days have been happy, yet the ambition to be in Europe remains.

The manager also addressed the recent loss of European qualification after a final‑day defeat by Sunderland, noting that the change only tweaked the details, not the core objectives. He praised the alignment with sporting directors and expressed confidence that the team is good and the areas for reinforcement are clear. With weeks of preparation left, Alonso says they are working in a very coordinated manner, which he believes is the right approach to succeed at Chelsea.