Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso criticizes defensive issues after Hull City draw

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has expressed frustration following a 2-2 draw against Hull City, a result that extends the club’s run without a clean sheet in the Premier League to 20 matches. This marks the longest such sequence for the club in 65 years. The team has conceded two or more goals in each of their first four league matches, a defensive trend not seen at the club in 11 years.

Alonso criticized the team’s performance as ‘soft’ in duels and noted that the squad is currently attacking better than they are defending. He addressed tactical decisions, such as the switch to a back four and the half-time withdrawal of defender Jorrel Hato, stating these were based on player profiles rather than a direct response to defensive fragility.

Amidst these struggles, summer signing Morgan Rogers has emerged as a standout performer. Following a strong start to the season and impressive displays for the England national team, Rogers has provided four goal contributions in his first five league games for Chelsea.