Chelsea's pre-season delivered several lessons, but the final match of the Asian tour was a reminder that Xabi Alonso's project is far from complete. After an impressive victory against AC Milan (3-0), the Blues were held by Johor Darul Ta'zim (3-3) on Sunday in Malaysia. A spectacular encounter that exposed certain defensive frailties and a lack of collective control.
Mudryk back on the pitch
One of the highlights of this tour was the return of Mykhailo Mudryk. After a lengthy absence, the Ukrainian gradually rediscovered his competitive rhythm. Alonso described his return as a particularly emotional moment for the club. Coming on as a substitute against Johor, the winger took part in the closing stages of the match — an encouraging sign for what lies ahead.
Palmer, cornerstone of the Alonso project
Cole Palmer remains at the heart of the Spanish coach's project. Alonso clearly expressed his intention to build an attacking system capable of getting the best out of his playmaker, particularly in combination with Morgan Rogers. Palmer did not, however, feature in the final match against Johor, his absence being treated as a simple precaution following a minor physical issue.
Two very different faces in forty-eight hours
On the pitch, Chelsea produced a contrasting double display. The 3-0 victory over AC Milan had given an impression of control, driven in particular by a brace from João Pedro and a goal from Moisés Caicedo. Twenty-four hours later, against Johor, the Blues conceded three goals and had to come from behind twice to salvage a draw.
The tour is therefore encouraging, without being entirely reassuring. Alonso has a rich but also very large squad at his disposal, with lingering questions over the group's balance and the combinations still to be put in place.
One final test before the Premier League
There is now one last pre-season fixture remaining: the visit of Real Sociedad on 15 August at Stamford Bridge. It will be the final real test before the Premier League kicks off and Chelsea's trip to Fulham, scheduled for 24 August.
Chelsea are moving in the right direction, but Alonso still has a few adjustments to make before the season begins in earnest.
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