Xabi Alonso has now taken charge of his first training session as Chelsea manager, and there were plenty of youngsters looking to make an impression on the new boss straight away.
The hard work starts now for the Blues, who under Alonso are looking for a far better domestic season than the 10th-placed finish secured in the 2025/26 campaign.
Some early positive news for the Spaniard is that the likes of Cole Palmer, Joao Pedro and Estevao Willian were all in training straight away after being left out of their respective World Cup squads.
Chelsea fans, share your expectations for Xabi Alonso! 🏆
Five Chelsea academy stars involved in Xabi Alonso’s first training session
While the likes of Enzo Fernandez and Reece James continue their quest to win the international tournament, some academy players were called up to training and given their chance to impress the boss.
Reggie Walsh and Ryan Kavuma-McQueen were both pictured taking on instructions from Alonso. Both have already made their debuts for the first team.
Also present in training were Landon Emenalo, Mahdi Nicoli-Jazuli and Calvin Diakite, who all enjoyed impressive campaigns with the academy last season.
The Spaniard stressed the importance of Cobham in his first interview with the club, a respect which Enzo Maresca also had during his time in charge.
Given the fact Chelsea have no European football on the cards for next season, a number of fringe players are starting to make their way out of the club.
Andrey Santos‘ move to Manchester United will be confirmed today, while Tyrique George is amongst those to already secure a permanent exit.
Santos is one of Chelsea’s most-underrated players 🧩
Man United and Newcastle are interested.
Opportunities coming the way of academy stars this season at Chelsea
With the first team squad set to be trimmed down, the opportunities when injuries and suspensions hit are likely to fall to those who are representing the academy.
There will be some making moves on loan away from the club too. Jesse Derry is set for his first spell away from the club at Sporting, and was swamped by supporters when he arrived at the airport.
It will be a great experience for a number of those academy stars to tour with the side during pre-season, with them set to visit Australia and Asia before returning to Stamford Bridge.
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