Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has expressed confidence in young Brazilian forward Estêvão, saying he expects the player to take on an important role for the club despite receiving limited minutes so far this season. Alonso's backing, reported by Vanguard, signals the club's continued faith in the youngster's development and potential contribution to the team.

Former Chelsea forward Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has praised manager Xabi Alonso's decision to sign ex-England striker Danny Welbeck, describing it as 'great business'. His comments followed Chelsea's 6-3 victory over Leeds United in a Carabao Cup match on Wednesday, during which the Blues had appeared close to elimination before securing the win, according to the Daily Post.

Chelsea forward Cole Palmer says he is determined to prove himself in the 2026-27 Premier League season after an injury-disrupted previous campaign. According to IOL, the England international has regained his fitness and confidence and feels ready to express himself under new manager Xabi Alonso as he looks to make his mark for the London club.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said his side can perform at a higher level than last season after the club beat Chelsea 2-1. According to TimesLIVE Sport, Arteta expressed optimism that the team could surpass the success it achieved in the previous campaign. The victory over their London rivals appeared to reinforce his belief in the squad's potential heading further into the season.

Arsenal produced a comeback victory to halt Chelsea's strong start to the season, according to The Citizen Sport. The result was described as a statement fightback by the London club. For Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso, the defeat brought an end to a three-game winning run across all competitions. The report frames the match as a significant early-season setback for Chelsea, while underlining Arsenal's credentials after overturning the deficit to claim the win.

Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has ruled Chelsea out of the Premier League title race this season, saying it is too soon for Xabi Alonso's side to be considered genuine challengers. According to the Daily Post, Petit instead backed Arsenal to win back-to-back league titles. His remarks come as the new Premier League season begins, with several clubs expected to compete near the top of the table.