Azpilicueta backs Alonso to succeed at Chelsea

Chelsea legend Cesar Azpilicueta has backed his former teammate Xabi Alonso to overcome the club’s difficult start to the season and eventually bring success back to Stamford Bridge.

Azpilicueta, who spent more than a decade at Chelsea before leaving the club, told the BBC’s Nizaar Kinsella that he continues to follow his former side closely and remains hopeful about their future.

“I left Chelsea, but Chelsea will always stay in my heart. I follow every game and I hope the club comes back to where it belongs,” Azpilicueta said.

Azpilicueta confident in Alonso project

Chelsea have struggled for consistency since Alonso took charge, but Azpilicueta believes the Spaniard and his coaching staff need time to build the necessary understanding within the squad.

“There are some very strong teams around and football sometimes needs a bit of time,” he said.

“You need connections, people playing together and understanding each other. I have confidence that [manager] Xabi [Alonso], the staff and the players will do good work. Hopefully they can bring a lot of happiness to the fans.”

Azpilicueta knows Alonso well from their playing days and remains convinced that his former teammate can help Chelsea improve despite their early difficulties.

The former Chelsea captain also hinted at a return to Stamford Bridge in the future, although he jokingly ruled out a playing comeback.

Chelsea legend plans Stamford Bridge return

“I will come back one day. I won’t be putting on my boots, though,” Azpilicueta added.

The Spaniard made 508 appearances for Chelsea between 2012 and 2023, winning multiple major trophies during his time at the club, including the Champions League and Premier League.

His comments come as Chelsea look to address defensive problems during the international break after a difficult opening to the campaign.