Chelsea FC faces defensive struggles under Xabi Alonso

Chelsea FC is facing defensive challenges during the early stages of the 2026 season under manager Xabi Alonso. Despite a strong start with four wins in five matches across all competitions, the team has recently struggled, failing to win in three consecutive league games and suffering a 3-0 defeat to Brentford.

Defensive statistics show the club has conceded 23 Premier League goals from non-penalty set-pieces since the start of last season, a figure tied for the highest in the league. While the attacking trio of Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers, and Joao Pedro has shown significant promise with ten goals and ten assists in 19 games, other players such as Malo Gusto, Reece James, and Wesley Fofana have struggled with form and consistency.

Defender Levi Colwill expressed optimism regarding the upcoming international break, stating that the team intends to use the period to improve and return to form. Chelsea is scheduled to play Bournemouth on October 10.