Xabi Alonso’s difficult start at Chelsea has intensified scrutiny of his position, while Real Madrid’s revival under Jose Mourinho has reopened debate over Florentino Perez’s decision to dismiss the Spanish coach.
Chelsea have taken only five wins from their opening 10 Premier League matches, alongside one draw and four defeats. Their latest setback was a 1-0 loss to Sunderland, who began the match at the bottom of the table.
The results have been particularly disappointing because Chelsea are not competing in a European competition this season, giving them more time to rest and prepare than several of their rivals. The Sunderland defeat has therefore increased pressure on Alonso and raised doubts about both his ability to build a competitive side and the club’s willingness to give him time.
Chelsea have yet to develop a consistent playing identity under their manager. Their formation and starting line-up continue to change, with no settled tactical approach clearly established. Those repeated alterations have also led to questions over whether Alonso has identified a group of players he fully trusts to carry out his plans.
Injuries may have disrupted that process. The absence of Joao Pedro, in particular, has deprived Chelsea of an important attacking option and forced Alonso to adjust both his personnel and the roles assigned to players. However, injuries alone do not fully explain the team’s inconsistent performances. With a large squad and a range of options available, Alonso is expected to find alternatives and establish a recognisable style that can survive periods without key players.
The central concern is that Chelsea’s players still do not appear to have a clear understanding of what is required in different match situations. The team’s performance can vary significantly from one game to the next, leaving Alonso under pressure to turn a sizeable squad into a more cohesive and reliable unit.
How much time will Chelsea give Alonso?
Chelsea’s next major decision may be whether to support a long-term project or respond quickly to poor results. Mikel Arteta needed several seasons, together with signings suited to his ideas, before Arsenal became serious contenders after difficult periods. Jurgen Klopp likewise required time at Liverpool to develop his team before restoring the club’s position in domestic and European football.
Chelsea, however, have a recent history of making swift changes when results decline. Alonso must therefore show visible progress in the coming matches, even if judging a managerial project solely by its early record would be premature.
His struggles have also revived discussion about Perez’s decision to remove him from Real Madrid around a year ago, following defeat by Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final. Many felt Alonso had not been given enough time, particularly after his success with Bayer Leverkusen.
His current problems do not prove Perez was right, as Chelsea and Real Madrid offer different players, resources and pressures. Yet the continued difficulty in establishing a clear identity has raised questions about Alonso’s readiness to lead elite clubs.
After his departure, Alvaro Arbeloa completed the season as interim manager before Jose Mourinho took charge. Real Madrid have since improved, particularly after the latest international break, including a 2-1 victory over Barcelona at Camp Nou. Mourinho appears to have given the team greater stability and confidence, although comparisons must account for Real Madrid’s stronger squad and different demands.
The Sunderland defeat is another warning for Alonso. Chelsea may remain patient, but the club’s history means his margin for error is limited.
