Xabi Alonso sets Chelsea agenda: keeps captain, backs Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernández

Xabi Alonso has taken charge of Chelsea with a four‑year contract and full autonomy from the club’s owners. In his first press conference he confirmed that Reece James will remain club captain and that he wants Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernández to stay despite transfer speculation. Alonso highlighted England international Cole Palmer as a "special player" and said the team will be built around his talent. He declined to comment on a failed bid for Granit Xhaka and noted interest in Norwegian winger Andreas Schjelderup, while acknowledging other clubs’ interest in Alejandro Garnacho. The manager also explained his choice of Chelsea over Liverpool as a matter of timing, stressing the immediate opportunity the Blues offered. Overall, Alonso’s early statements outline a focus on stability, youth development and targeted signings to revive Chelsea’s fortunes in the 2026‑27 Premier League season.