Xabi Alonso has wasted no time implementing his ideas at Chelsea, with improving the team’s physical intensity emerging as one of his key priorities ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Softfootball understands The Spaniard has already analysed performance data from last season, which revealed Chelsea were outrun by their opponents in all but one of their Premier League matches. The only exception came in a 1-1 draw against Liverpool at Anfield, while the Blues also covered the least total distance of any club in the division.
The statistics stand in stark contrast to Alonso’s successful spell at Bayer Leverkusen. During their historic Bundesliga title-winning campaign in 2023/24, only Hoffenheim covered more ground than Alonso’s side, underlining the high-intensity style he expects from his teams.
As part of his squad assessment, Alonso is also eager to take a closer look at Nicolas Jackson during pre-season following the striker’s return from his loan spell at Bayern Munich.
The Chelsea boss believes pre-season will be crucial in evaluating both the fitness levels and tactical suitability of his squad as he looks to build a more energetic, aggressive and competitive team for the new campaign.
