If some regret the timing and would have preferred to see Xabi Alonso succeed Arne Slot on the Liverpool bench, they will have to get used to it. Andoni Iraola will coach the Reds, while Alonso will discover the Premier League with Chelsea. The 44-year-old Spanish coach cannot be pitied. Although he had a short experience at Real Madrid, he was able to bounce back with one of the English big names.
Alonso will, however, have to manage a large squad while the Blues will be deprived of the European Cup next season. Unsurprisingly, several departures are planned. At the start of the month, no less than ten players were announced as starters: Filip Jorgensen, Nicolas Jackson, Liam Delap, Axel Disasi, Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah, Benoît Badiashile, David Datro Fofana, Caleb Wiley, Kendry Paez.
Alonso retains several players
Then come the thorny cases of Enzo Fernandez and Marc Cucurrella. The first was suspended by his club after revealing his attraction to the city of Madrid. Argentina still remains alongside Valdebebas, but also at Manchester City where Enzo Maresca would like to return him. Regarding Cucurella, the Spaniard has repeatedly proclaimed that he would like to return home. A comeback at FC Barcelona would delight him, but it remains too expensive (€50 million).
You will have understood, Chelsea wants to strengthen itself (the arrivals of Emegha and Barco are recorded), but the London club is especially preparing to shed several elements. The Athletic reveals, however, that Xabi Alonso gave a list to his leaders. A list with the names of seven untouchable players: Reece James, Cole Palmer, Moises Caicedo, Levi Colwill, Estevão, João Pedro and Josh Acheampong. The message got through.
