Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso faces two demanding tests this week, with Liverpool visiting in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday before Manchester United arrive in the Premier League on Saturday. The Spaniard arrived at Stamford Bridge in summer 2026 after building his reputation with Bayer Leverkusen, where his tactical system helped deliver the Bundesliga title in 2023/24.
Chelsea have shown considerable attacking strength this season, scoring 25 goals across nine competitive matches. However, they have conceded 16, highlighting the defensive weaknesses Alonso must address. Their 2-0 home defeat against Tottenham on October 24 intensified scrutiny, particularly after Chelsea managed just 31% possession and played without a recognised striker following João Pedro’s injury. Cole Palmer‘s dismissal compounded the problems, while goalkeeper Mike Penders endured a difficult afternoon after Emiliano Martínez suffered a fractured jaw.
Xabi Alonso Chelsea Mistakes That Could Cost Him
Those problems point to three tactical mistakes Alonso must avoid against two major Premier League rivals.
1. Leaving too much space behind the wing-backs
Alonso’s preferred 3-4-2-1 system depends on wing-backs providing width and supporting attacks. However, aggressive positioning can expose Chelsea’s outside centre-backs when opponents counter quickly. Liverpool could exploit those gaps by releasing forwards into the channels before Chelsea recover their defensive shape.
To limit that threat, Chelsea need midfielders to provide better cover, while their wing-backs must recognise when to advance and when to hold their positions.
2. Playing predictable passes through midfield
Manchester United could punish Chelsea if Alonso insists on building every attack through congested central areas. Opponents can force turnovers by pressing the ball carrier and blocking passing lanes towards the attacking midfielders.
Chelsea need quicker switches towards the flanks and occasional direct passes to escape pressure. Palmer’s availability will influence those decisions, particularly if Alonso must reorganise his attack after the recent suspension.
3. Waiting too long to change the plan
Chelsea cannot afford to persist with an ineffective formation simply because Alonso selected it before kick-off. Against Tottenham, the attacking structure struggled without João Pedro, exposing the need for alternative plans when key players miss out.
If Liverpool or Manchester United consistently block Chelsea’s passing lanes, Alonso must respond before the opposition gains full control. Adjusting the midfield positioning, changing the defensive line or introducing a different attacking profile could restore balance. With Liverpool and Manchester United presenting different challenges, Alonso needs to recognise when his original plan stops working and make changes before Chelsea pay the price.
