Premier League clubs Chelsea and Brighton undergo squad changes

Chelsea FC enters the new Premier League season under the leadership of Xabi Alonso, following a 10th-place finish in the previous campaign. The club has undergone a significant squad reset, focusing on players that align with a specific tactical identity. Key acquisitions include Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa for £117 million, Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace, and Valentin Barco. To provide veteran leadership to a young squad, the club also signed Jordan Henderson and Danny Welbeck.

Brighton & Hove Albion faces a different set of challenges heading into their 10th consecutive Premier League season. After qualifying for the UEFA Conference League, the club must manage a thin roster following the departures of several senior players, including Jan Paul van Hecke to Tottenham, Danny Welbeck to Chelsea, and Joel Veltman to West Ham. With an expected schedule exceeding 50 competitive fixtures due to European and domestic cup involvement, squad depth remains a primary concern for manager Fabian Hürzeler.