New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso says he wants midfielder Enzo Fernandez to remain at the club as he settles into the role. Alonso makes the point at his official unveiling and first press appearances, answering questions about Fernandez’s future and confirming his preference to keep the Argentina international at Stamford Bridge. Multiple reports note that Fernandez has been linked with leaving and is described as open to a move, but Alonso’s message is that he wants him in his squad for next season.
Alongside the Fernandez discussion, outlets also report that Alonso frames his early plans around increasing competitiveness and urgency, urging Chelsea to develop a “hunger” for victory. One source also mentions Alonso speaking about other squad-related topics during the same unveiling period, including absences and the status of players such as Cole Palmer, though details are not consistent across all coverage. Another thread in the reporting indicates Alonso is cautious about how much time Chelsea’s leadership will give him to pursue major targets, including title-level ambitions.
Overall, sources agree on Alonso’s stated desire to keep Fernandez while outlining broader messages about mentality and team ambition.
