Photo by Chris Lee - Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Photo by Chris Lee - Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Xabi Alonso saw plenty of positives in Chelsea’s final pre-season game against Real Sociedad, however needs to make one change by the time the Premier League campaign comes around.
The Blues ran out 3-1 winners thanks to goals from Morgan Rogers and a Joao Pedro brace, with Xabi Alonso naming a very strong starting side.
Chelsea lined up again in a back three after finding success in their previous friendly against AC Milan, and the same occurred again at Stamford Bridge.
Xabi Alonso must start Enzo Fernandez for Chelsea vs Fulham
There was a first appearance in pre-season for Reece James in midfield, and he was replaced in the second half by Enzo Fernandez.
The Argentine was greeted by boos from the home fans, however, if he stays is too good to be sat on the bench when the Premier League season gets underway.
He would likely come into midfield alongside Moises Caicedo, which would see James drop back into the back three.
Chelsea v Real Sociedad - Pre-Season Friendly
Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images
The obvious player he would replace is Wesley Fofana, who is suspended. Maxence Lacroix and Levi Colwill look certainties to start against Fulham.
Fofana looked a little lost at the back against Sociedad, with the La Liga side enjoying long spells of dominance during the first half.
James’ brilliance in winning the ball back means he will suit the centre-back role well, and has shown he can do it in the past under Thomas Tuchel.
Fernandez’s quality in possession will be a nice complement to Caicedo, and the extra protection of another defender behind them will still allow him to dictate play in attack too.
Enzo Fernandez reaction on Chelsea return
Photo by Adrian DENNIS / AFP via Getty Images
Fofana’s future at Chelsea is by no means over. The Blues are parting ways with a number of other defensive options this summer.
Trevoh Chalobah and Benoit Badiashile have both made moves to Italy, while it looks as if Tosin Adarabioyo’s Blues career has come to an end too.
Valentin Barco has been handed the number four jersey, which was Tosin’s shirt number last season.
The Englishman was not in the matchday squad today, with interest from the Premier League and abroad in signing him.