What Xabi Alonso is encouraging his Chelsea team to do from the first minute

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has encouraged his players to attack from the opening whistle, an approach that has contributed to the club’s growing reputation for scoring early in matches. According to a report published by Chelsea Chronicle on Monday, October 12, 2026, the Spanish coach wants his team to begin games with greater intensity and put opponents under immediate pressure.

Chelsea’s instructions were evident in their emphatic 5-1 victory over Bournemouth on Saturday, when the Blues scored twice within the opening five minutes. Jordan Henderson broke the deadlock in the second minute before Morgan Rogers quickly extended the advantage, giving Chelsea an early platform to control the contest.

Rogers has also found the net early in matches against Arsenal and Hull City, providing further evidence of Chelsea’s ability to start games aggressively. The midfielder’s contributions have complemented the wider attacking approach Alonso is trying to establish, with the team looking to create opportunities before their opponents can settle into their defensive shape.

Although Alonso has previously discussed Chelsea’s tendency to score early, he has been reluctant to claim personal credit for the pattern. Nevertheless, his encouragement to move forward immediately appears consistent with the team’s positive starts and willingness to take the initiative.

Chelsea’s performance against Bournemouth also offered encouragement at the other end of the pitch. They conceded only once in the 5-1 victory, marking the first time this Premier League season that they had allowed fewer than two goals in a league match. The improvement was significant for a side that had experienced defensive difficulties in earlier fixtures.

The return of Moises Caicedo has provided an additional boost to Chelsea’s midfield. His defensive work helps protect the back line, disrupt opposition attacks and give teammates greater freedom to move forward. Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson has gone as far as describing the Ecuadorian as the best defensive midfielder in the world, underlining the importance placed on his contribution.

Despite being pleased with Chelsea’s fast starts, Alonso has suggested that he would also welcome goals arriving at decisive moments late in matches. Speaking after the Bournemouth win, he said: “Maybe I prefer to score the first one in the last minute. It will happen one day, hopefully.”

His comment reflected the unpredictable nature of football and the importance of finding ways to win even when a team cannot establish an early advantage. While quick goals can give Chelsea control and confidence, the ability to remain patient and deliver in the closing stages will also be important throughout a long campaign.

Chelsea’s next challenge will include a London derby against Tottenham Hotspur later this month. Alonso will be hoping his players can maintain their attacking urgency while building on the defensive improvement shown against Bournemouth. Consistency in both areas will be crucial if the Blues are to turn their promising performances into sustained results.