Xabi Alonso has been particularly impressed by Chelsea youngster Landon Emenalo during this pre-season campaign so far, with whispers that he could get a first team chance next season.
Alonso took the opportunity of the first pre-season friendly of the summer to hand plenty of Cobham graduates the chance to impress amongst the first team stars.
Emenalo was handed the start at left-back, and attacked with a lot of impetus as the Blues looked to get on the front foot against Western Sydney Warriors.
Who was the BEST and WORST performer in Xabi Alonso’s first televised game as Chelsea boss?👀
Chelsea player ratings vs Western Sydney Wanderers
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Xabi Alonso considering making Landon Emenalo part of his Chelsea first team
When he was replaced in the second half, it became clear that Chelsea do not have as much strength at left-back following the sale of Marc Cucurella.
However, Simon Phillips has claimed on his Substack that there are whispers coming from the club regarding Emenalo getting opportunities in the first team squad next season.
He said: “SPTC Sources can reveal that Alonso has been massively praising left back Landon Emenalo after working with him closely for the last few weeks, and starting him in the game yesterday.
Western Sydney Wanderers v Chelsea FC: Sydney Super Cup
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“The 18-year-old, who can also play a number of other positions across the back line and also as a defensive midfielder, has really impressed Alonso and has been one of the standout academy players in training so far.
“Chelsea have been searching for a new left back to sign this summer, and they are currently stuck with their attempts to sign Alonso’s request, Pep Chavarria.
“However, there are some whispers that Emenalo could be given a chance if Chelsea cannot land Chavarria, rather then pivot to another target such as Alvaro Carreras of Real Madrid.”
Jorrel Hato is expected to be an option to play left-back, however he showed in the second half of last season that he was more comfortable as part of a back three.
CONFIRMED: Chelsea XI to face Western Sydney Wanderers.
Xabi Alonso has included a whole host of Chelsea academy stars in his first XI.
Who is Landon Emenalo?
Despite starting left-back for Chelsea in Sydney, Emenalo has also played at centre-back and in defensive midfield during his time with the academy.
Despite playing for USA at Under 17 level, he has since pledged his allegiance to England, where he has played up to U19 level alongside the likes of Shumaira Mheuka and Jesse Derry.
The defender is the son of Michael Emenalo, who used to hold the role of technical director at the club between 2011 and 2017.
There is still plenty of time left in the transfer window for Chelsea to address their left-back woes, with Lewis Hall seen by supporters as the dream target.
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