Alonso: We Respect Enzo's Contributions; Failed to Sign Camara? I Am Satisfied with Squad Depth

At 23:30 Beijing time this Sunday, Chelsea will face Arsenal away from home in the third round of the Premier League. In the first part of his pre-match press conference, Xabi Alonso discussed his assessment of the summer transfer window, as well as his views on the failed move for Lamine Camara and Enzo Fernandez's departure.

How do you evaluate Chelsea's recruitment work in this summer transfer window?

I think we can be completely satisfied with the results of the entire transfer window. Many of the targets we planned at the end of May and the beginning of June were ultimately achieved. This summer window completed the first stage of squad construction. Looking at our current group, the squad structure is now very balanced. This is a good start, and the first-stage tasks have been completed. Whether looking at the present or the long-term future, this operation has gone very well.

Are you disappointed that you failed to sign Lamine Camara?

I think we were prepared. I am very satisfied with the squad, the depth on the bench, and the healthy competition created in every position. I have mentioned before that the players in the squad are at balanced stages of development: we have experienced veterans as well as young talents.

We also have a group of players who are in the prime and mature stages of their careers. Now we need to build up our fitness through training so that we can deliver strong performances at the weekend. We have only played two matches so far this season, and the start has been positive. The squad is now fully settled, and this certainty is a good thing.

Did you vote in favor of the club's decision to sell Enzo Fernandez?

It was not decided by me alone. All decisions were discussed and taken responsibility for by our team together. Whether big or small, we collaborate throughout the entire process because we understand that the starting point of every decision is for the team, for the squad as a whole, and for the club's daily training to continue developing positively. We want to create a positive team atmosphere and build an excellent squad. All decisions have been made toward that goal.

Throughout the summer, did you always expect Enzo Fernandez to leave? Do you feel regret that you did not get enough opportunities to work with him?

There are many uncertainties in football, and you must be prepared to deal with every situation. Enzo and I have had many conversations. We have always respected everything he has contributed to the club. His contribution has been outstanding, and we are grateful for that. But now it is time to look forward. The current squad is full of talent, with outstanding players and unique qualities in every position and every area of the team. We are ready to move forward.

Can Caicedo make it for Sunday's match?

We will assess his physical condition tomorrow. Tomorrow is the final moment to determine the squad list for Sunday's match.

How happy are you that Morgan Rogers ultimately joined Chelsea rather than Arsenal?

This was a major recruitment decision in the club's squad-building plan. Signing Morgan Rogers was undoubtedly a major deal. He has great value both now and in the future, and he will be a core player for the team over the next six to seven years.

He has integrated into the team immediately, quickly developing excellent chemistry with the whole squad and his attacking partners. Achieving this level of understanding in such a short period gives us great expectations for the future. It is clear that he is very happy within the team, and that is extremely important.