17/09/2026
🎙Xabi Alonso's Full Pre-Brentford Press Conference:
🔹Xabi Alonso Chelsea ownership transition: "I think it is an important day for the club when there is an important change in the structure of the club. I want to thank for the former owners for what they have done. I know they have played an important role. It is good that Behdad is now in full control. I have a good relationship with Behdad. He spoke to convince me [to join]. We move on together. That's why we are here, to get into that position, knowing that the competition that we have but for sure the ambition of the club, the potential of the club, the players, where we are. We know where we want to be. Everything takes time."
🔹Xabi Alonso on Joao Pedro injury: "In terms of injuries and the squad, we are having the last training session today. Nobody is ruled out for Friday. We will wait until tomorrow to make the final decision. There is also a possibility that Palestra and Henderson could feature tomorrow."
🔹Xabi Alonso on if Moises Caicedo is fit: "He's getting closer and tomorrow we will make the final decision."
🔹 Xabi Alonso on if Reece James will feature: "No, it was just a decision for Tuesday. Tomorrow, we will decide."
🔹Xabi Alonso on defensive improvement: "The defence is the whole team. It's not just the back four or back five. It's about the team; how we compete and adapt to different moments. When we take the lead, when we are drawing, we need the same mentality. It's about being able to adapt. For sure, we have had four-five weeks since we started the season, this will be the seventh game in this block and it's important one because it's before the international break."
🔹 Xabi Alonso on if Joao Pedro was disappointed not to be in Brazil squad after missing World Cup: "No, he has moved on from the summer, the World Cup, he has a great desire to have a great season. The summer is far away now."
🔹Xabi Alonso on Moises Caicedo significance: "Moi is one of the top midfielders in the wo