Xabi Alonso's pre match chat with Sky Sports Xabi Alonso's pre match chat with Sky Sports

“I take responsibility” – Alonso admits to error in Chelsea win over Leeds

Xabi Alonso apologised for the Chelsea team he picked to start the game against Leeds in the Carabao Cup tonight.

If you enjoy Talk Chelsea coverage and want to see more of it, add us as a preferred source on Google to make us a favourite and see more of our content.

Xabi Alonso is very likeable, but also very earnest, as he showed once again post-game today.

The manager had selected a somewhat rotated team for Chelsea’s EFL Cup game against Leeds, and after the first half they were 2-0 down. The manager was forced into four half time subs to change things up.

Rather than bask in the glory of his genius move to save the game, Alonso ended up almost apologising for his risk to start the game.

Chelsea coach apologises for getting selection wrong

chelsea v leeds united carabao cup third round
LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 09: Xabi Alonso, Manager of Chelsea, reacts during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Chelsea and Leeds United at Stamford Bridge on September 09, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images)

“Yeah, there was so many changes,” the manager said.

“There was a risk. Things weren’t going the way we planned, so we had to change. I take responsibility with the first half. The crowd were great, with the atmosphere [pushing the players on].”

It was a risk worth taking, and we won the game anyway. Momentum is really starting to build at Chelsea, and this manager looks to be a total gem so far.

In other news…

Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers bickered over who should win the man of the match award in their post-game interiew.

Reggie Watson got a start today, and before the game Xabi Alonso spoke about what he wanted from his academy midfielder.

Mykhailo Mudryk has made the worst possible start to his Spurs career by picking up a 6 to 8 week injury.

Subscribe
Notify of
guest

0 Comments
newest
oldest most voted
0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x