Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
There was so much to like about Chelsea’s performance against AC Milan, however Xabi Alonso was not happy with Robert Sanchez in the second half.
Alonso lined the Blues up in a back three for the first time since taking over, and reaped the rewards as they ran out dominant 3-0 winners.
A brace for Joao Pedro alongside a stunning Moises Caicedo volley got the job done in front of goal, with standout performances at the back from the likes of Josh Acheampong and Wesley Fofana.
Xabi Alonso fumes at Robert Sanchez during Chelsea 3-0 AC Milan
The Spaniard elected to start Robert Sanchez in goal ahead of Mike Penders, who looks a shoo-in to play for a second-string Blues side against Johor Darul Ta’zim.
Sanchez had very little to do between the sticks, and instead was being judged more on his distribution, both at short range and long range.
Chelsea FC v AC Milan - Pre-Season Friendly
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
One attempt at a long ball in the 65th minute ended up going straight out of play, much to the annoyance of the manager.
Alonso reacted with fury towards the shot stopper, clearly frustrated that one of his instructions had not been followed by his goalkeeper.
A first clean sheet of pre-season was a welcome arrival for the Blues, although clearly it was not the perfect display the boss was hoping for from Sanchez.
Alonso wants to play out from the back
Even from when Alonso was in charge of Bayer Leverkusen, he placed an importance on playing short passes out from the back.
Starting a back three, which included defenders who are very comfortable on the ball and an unflappable Romeo Lavia in front of them, there was no excuse not to play out from the back.
This has never been the strongest part of Sanchez’s game, and was one of the main reasons why some have been theorising that Penders could be the goalkeeper of choice for the new boss.
It looks as if he will start the season with Sanchez though, meaning the Spaniard is going to have to learn to feel comfortable making short passes to avoid the wrath of his new manager.