Di Matteo Backs Alonso to Revive Chelsea's Champions League Hopes

Roberto Di Matteo, the former Chelsea manager, has expressed confidence in Xabi Alonso's ability to lead Chelsea FC back to the UEFA Champions League. Following a disastrous 2025-2026 campaign where Chelsea finished 10th in the Premier League and experienced a significant decline after the January departure of Enzo Maresca, Di Matteo believes Alonso has the necessary skills to revitalize the team.

He noted that the lack of midweek European football would allow Alonso to work closely with the players throughout the week, preparing them effectively for matches. Di Matteo anticipates a strong season for Chelsea, aiming for a top-four finish.

He referenced Chelsea's historical capacity to rebound from disappointing seasons, citing the example of Antonio Conte, who led Chelsea to the Premier League title in the 2016-2017 season after they finished 10th the previous year. Alonso has agreed to a four-year deal and will begin his role with Chelsea's first league fixture against Fulham.