Xabi Alonso, Chelsea's head coach, clarified his stance on Enzo Fernández's departure to Manchester City and revealed the reason behind his team's declining possession rates.
Chelsea is preparing for a London derby against reigning champions Arsenal next Sunday.
Alonso stated at the press conference: "We can be completely satisfied with the transfer market. We accomplished much of what we began discussing early in the summer. The first phase was very balanced in this transfer window. The first phase is complete, and it was a good phase for both the present and the future."
Responding to the failure to sign Lamine Camara from Monaco, he answered: "I believe we are prepared and satisfied with the squad and its depth. We have a good balance among players of different age groups. We need to build this energy throughout the week to deliver an outstanding performance by the weekend. So far, the start has been good, and now we know who the key players are, which is positive."
He clarified his view on Enzo Fernández's move to Manchester City: "We make all decisions together. We work jointly on both major and minor decisions. We knew that the ultimate goal was to provide the best for the team. We want to build high morale and a strong squad."
He added, "In the world of football, many things happen. We held conversations with Enzo, and they were all conducted respectfully. What he contributed to the club was wonderful, but now it is time to move forward. We have high-quality players in all positions, and we are now fully ready."
Enzo departed for City in a record-breaking deal worth £125 million, making him jointly the most expensive signing in Premier League history alongside Isak's move to Liverpool.
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The Spaniard also addressed Emmanuel Emega, arriving from Strasbourg: "He is a young player with distinctive talents. We hope his situation improves and that he takes the necessary steps to become more involved. Young players must be patient, but opportunities will come their way."
Regarding Chelsea's midfield options, he said, "Valentin Barco is young but possesses tremendous energy. Jordan Henderson brings calmness and the right mentality. Henderson understands the flow of the game and is getting closer and closer to earning playing time. Reece James as well, and Malo Gusto too."
He praised Morgan Rogers, the most expensive English player who joined this summer from Aston Villa: "Regarding team planning and making major decisions, Morgan was certainly one of the most important choices. Acquiring a player of his stature means he will be a key player over the next 6–7 years."
He concluded by addressing the team's declining possession rates in the first two matches, explaining: "We are capable of adapting to what we desire. There will be matches where we dominate possession but struggle to score. We are still at the beginning; we have played two matches and won both. We recognize that we can deliver better performances."
Despite the Blues winning their first two matches of the season, their possession rates, which fell below 40%, drew attention among the London club's statistics.
Arsenal and Chelsea currently top the Premier League standings, tied with Hull City, Manchester City, and Brentford.
