New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has challenged his players to show greater hunger, passion and determination as the Blues prepare for the start of the 2026/27 Premier League season.
The Spaniard, who was unveiled at Stamford Bridge on Monday, takes over a Chelsea side that endured a disappointing campaign last season, finishing 10th in the Premier League without a trophy and missing out on European qualification.
Speaking during his first press conference, Alonso stressed that building the right mentality would be crucial if Chelsea are to compete with the league’s top clubs.
“We need hunger, passion, we need to want to improve,” Alonso said.
“The Premier League is so competitive. We need to prepare ourselves, we need to be determined in the details, in how we want to play. But the most important bit is our game.”
Garnacho’s Future Remains Uncertain
Alonso also addressed speculation surrounding winger Alejandro Garnacho, who has been linked with a move away from the club as Chelsea continue to reshape their squad.
The Argentine struggled to make a significant impact after joining from Manchester United, scoring just once in 24 Premier League appearances last season.
“There is interest in him from other clubs, so let’s see how this develops. Hopefully it finishes in the best possible way for all parties,” Alonso said.
Fernandez and Palestra
The Chelsea boss refused to be drawn into discussions over the long-term future of midfielder Enzo Fernandez, although he confirmed that he had spoken with the Argentina international and hopes he remains at Stamford Bridge.
Alonso also praised the club’s only major signing of the summer, full-back Marco Palestra, who arrived from Atalanta on a contract running until 2033.
“He has many great qualities for modern football.
He can play in a back four or a back five, on the left.
We need to keep working with him to adapt to the Premier League. He has a great mentality in terms of competitiveness and his hunger,” Alonso said.
Chelsea also completed the transfer of Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos earlier on Monday.
Focus Unchanged Despite No European Football
Although Chelsea will not compete in Europe this season, Alonso insisted that the absence of continental football would have only a limited effect on his preparations.
“Small details, for sure, but the main focus for how we want to start in August does not change much,” he said.
“We are working with the sporting directors. What we need to reinforce is clear, but we are working on it.”
Building a New Identity
Alonso returns to English football after a distinguished playing career with Liverpool before spells at Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.
He now faces the challenge of restoring stability at Chelsea following a turbulent season that saw the club change managers twice.
The 44-year-old said creating a clear playing identity and bringing the squad together will be among his top priorities.
“To be part of that process, how we want to play, how we want to approach a game, that’s my goal,” Alonso said.
“That’s what I am looking forward to with the whole squad.”
Chelsea will begin their 2026/27 Premier League campaign with an away fixture against Fulham on August 24.
