Xabi Alonso reacts to Chelsea’s 2-1 defeat against Arsenal

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso admitted that the 2-1 defeat to Arsenal “hurts” but insisted his team must use the setback positively as they continue to develop under his management.

Chelsea made a dream start at the Emirates Stadium when Morgan Rogers opened the scoring after just 77 seconds. However, Arsenal responded strongly, with Kai Havertz equalising before Martin Ødegaard completed the comeback early in the second half.

Speaking after the match, Alonso acknowledged that Arsenal put Chelsea under significant pressure during the opening stages after the Blues took the lead. He felt his side struggled to keep possession and control the game during that period.

“It hurts because a defeat has to hurt,” Alonso said, while stressing that the result should not derail Chelsea’s progress. He also described the match as intense and highlighted the different momentum swings throughout the contest.

The Spaniard also admitted that Chelsea need to improve defensively after conceding seven goals in their opening three Premier League matches. Alonso wants his team to become more balanced and tighter while maintaining their aggressive attacking approach.

Despite suffering his first Premier League defeat as Chelsea manager, Alonso remained positive about the future. He believes the Blues are still in the early stages of building his team and that the experience at the Emirates can help them improve as the season progresses.

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