New Delhi, 06 November (H.S.): Chelsea have made a promising start to the ongoing English Premier League season, collecting 16 points from nine matches to occupy fourth place in the standings. In an interview with JioStar, Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso shared his views on the league's intense competitiveness, the team's defensive shortcomings and the ideal position for attacking midfielder Cole Palmer.

Alonso described the Premier League as an exceptionally demanding competition, stressing that no fixture could be taken lightly.

“Before joining Chelsea, I knew the Premier League would be challenging, but after arriving here, I have witnessed the quality of every team and player. Every match presents a fresh test. Each week, you face a side that is either competing for the title or fighting to remain in the league. You cannot afford to lose concentration even for a moment, because the quality of this competition will punish even the smallest mistake,” he said.

He added that the intensity of the league required the team to prepare for every fixture with complete focus. The coaching staff had to analyse each opponent meticulously and ensure that players were mentally and physically ready for the challenge.

Although the fixture schedule was demanding, Alonso said this was an inherent part of the competition. Chelsea, he noted, had a squad with considerable quality and depth, and it was important to utilise those resources effectively throughout the season.

Chelsea Need to Improve Their Defensive Performance

Addressing the team's defensive vulnerabilities, Alonso said there was no single reason behind the number of goals Chelsea had conceded, but acknowledged that it was an area requiring considerable improvement.

“We are working on this aspect, and the team is continuing to develop. We need to perform better in our matches, and reducing the number of goals we concede must be a priority. We have been working on our on-field structure and the positioning of players when we are without the ball,” he said.

According to Alonso, several goals conceded by Chelsea had resulted from minor individual errors rather than situations in which opponents had completely breached the defensive line. He described this as encouraging, as such mistakes could be identified and corrected.

He emphasised the need for greater organisation as a collective unit, improved performances in individual duels and better decision-making in the final third.

Alonso also stressed that defensive responsibility did not rest solely with the four defenders. It began with the forward line, where players were expected to press opponents and track back to support their teammates.

While preventing goals in every match might not always be possible, he said, Chelsea could certainly reduce the number they conceded. Better coordination across the team would also improve their chances of keeping clean sheets.

Attacking Freedom Must Be Balanced with Discipline

Alonso said attacking players should be given the freedom to express their individual abilities, but that such freedom must be accompanied by discipline and an understanding of the team's requirements.

“It is not simply about giving attacking players freedom. They must understand what the team needs at different moments. When attacking players enjoy their football, the team performs better and its chances of winning also improve. However, that does not mean they can play without any structure or plan,” he said.

He identified Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers, Joao Pedro and Estevao as important players for Chelsea. According to the coach, some players provide stability to the side, while others have the individual skill to make a decisive difference in a match. Maintaining a balance between these qualities would be crucial for the team.

Central Attacking Midfield Is Palmer's Ideal Position

Speaking about Cole Palmer's most effective position, Alonso said he believed the England international was best suited to the role of a central attacking midfielder.

“When Cole receives the ball between the forward line and the opposition's defence, he can deliver the final pass, take on defenders, score goals and make well-timed runs. That is the area from which he can cause the opposition the greatest problems,” Alonso said.

He emphasised the importance of getting the ball to Palmer in the right areas. Midfielders and defenders must move the ball quickly and find him in positions where he can make the most of his abilities.

Alonso added that Palmer's contribution extended beyond scoring goals and creating opportunities. His work off the ball, including closing down spaces and linking up play, also helped the team maintain its overall balance.

Chelsea to Face Sunderland on Sunday

Chelsea will take on Sunderland in their next Premier League fixture on Sunday, November 8. The match is scheduled to begin at 7.30 pm Indian Standard Time and will be broadcast live on JioHotstar and Star Sports.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar