Xabi Alonso has dismissed concerns over Chelsea’s large group of players training separately from his main squad, insisting the situation is “not an issue” as the club work through a series of potential exits.
Nicolas Jackson, Liam Delap, Axel Disasi and Mykhailo Mudryk are among the senior Chelsea players who have spent time away from Alonso’s principal training group at Cobham.
However, not everybody working separately is unwanted.
The Telegraph reported that Chelsea’s additional group can contain as many as 12 players, with circumstances differing across the squad.
Summer signings Jordan Henderson and Danny Welbeck, for example, have also worked separately while building their fitness.
🚨Xabi Alonso on Enzo Fernandez. [sky] pic.twitter.com/HsXeqLuIki
— CFCDaily (@CFCDaily) August 20, 2026
Xabi Alonso dismisses Chelsea ‘bomb squad’ concerns
The situation has inevitably drawn comparisons with the so-called Chelsea ‘bomb squad’ used previously for players deemed surplus to requirements.
Alonso insists his approach is different.
Speaking ahead of Monday’s Premier League opener against Fulham, the Chelsea head coach said: “We are managing well with group dynamics. Whenever we need, we have different groups, so it’s not been an issue at the moment.”
The Evening Standard reports that those working outside the main group continue to use the same first-team facilities and training pitches, rather than being completely separated from Alonso’s squad.
Several futures are nevertheless moving quickly.
ReadChelsea reported on Friday that Atletico Madrid sporting director Mateu Alemany travelled to London to advance a move for Jackson, with Chelsea seeking a permanent solution for the £65million-rated striker.
Disasi is also heading towards the exit after Chelsea reached an agreement over a Crystal Palace loan.
Yet Alonso’s decisions are not simply about removing players.
Chelsea rejected Palace’s approach for Josh Acheampong on Friday, underlining the distinction between players available for moves and those considered part of the new head coach’s plans.
Benoit Badiashile has also passed his Napoli medical as Chelsea continue reducing Alonso’s defensive options.
The squad remains unusually large with the transfer window still open.
Alonso’s message, however, is that Chelsea are managing different players according to their individual circumstances rather than operating one indiscriminate group of unwanted players.
Chelsea confirm Champions League return to Stamford Bridge despite European exile
Chelsea confirm Champions League return to Stamford Bridge despite European exile
Xabi Alonso reveals four-position Reece James plan before Fulham
Xabi Alonso reveals four-position Reece James plan before Fulham