Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has insisted that the Carabao Cup is the least important competition for his side after their fourth-round elimination against Liverpool on Wednesday evening.
The Blues suffered a 6-5 penalty shootout defeat at Anfield after the two teams played out a 1-1 draw in normal time.
Chelsea took the lead in the 38th minute when Morgan Rogers converted from the penalty spot after Ryan Gravenberch fouled Moises Caicedo.
Liverpool responded almost immediately, with Cody Gakpo levelling from 12 yards after Wesley Fofana handled the ball inside the area.
Both sides had chances to win after the break, but goalkeepers Giorgi Mamardashvili and Mike Penders made crucial saves to keep the score level.
Neither team could find a decisive goal before the final whistle, sending the tie to penalties.
Fofana subsequently missed the decisive spot-kick, allowing Liverpool to book their place in the quarter-finals.
Reflecting on the defeat, Alonso said (via CBS): “This is the least important competition for us.” He added that Chelsea’s focus was on their Premier League campaign.
However, the Spaniard’s comments are unlikely to convince frustrated supporters who want to win trophies.
Alonso’s admission is a daft way to respond to another cup disappointment.
Chelsea desperately need to end their poor run in domestic cup competitions, particularly at Wembley, where they have suffered repeated heartbreak in major finals.
The Carabao Cup was one of their most realistic opportunities to secure silverware this season.
Dismissing its importance after elimination doesn’t inspire confidence or demonstrate the winning mentality supporters expect.
Alonso has not helped himself with his comments, tactical decisions or treatment of Estevao Willian**.**
Chelsea desperately need creativity and inspiration in the final third, yet the Brazilian youngster has not been given the opportunities his talent deserves.
It would be a terrible waste if Estevao were pushed towards the exit because his manager refuses to trust him with meaningful minutes.