Xabi Alonso discussed Chelsea's transfer dealings, FIFA controversy, and returning players at his pre-match press conference.

Chelsea will face Tottenham in the Sydney Super Cup. After defeating Western Sydney Wanderers 6-4 in midweek, the Blues will take on their London rivals this weekend. Alonso was asked at the press conference about Chelsea's busy summer transfer window, including the club's £52 million signing of Maxence Lacroix, which was officially announced on Thursday. Alonso also discussed Nicolas Jackson and Moises Caicedo rejoining the squad in Sydney after their post-international break holidays.

Regarding Lacroix, have you been following him?

"I knew Maxence from the Bundesliga, but I think his progress and adaptation in the Premier League have been outstanding. Not just on the pitch, but also in terms of personality and leadership, he has those qualities. He is a very reliable player who brings strength to the defense, and I'm sure he can make an immediate impact on the team. This is a great signing, both for now and for the future."

What about his character? Is he a leader?

"He has a strong personality, he is very mature, and he has a desire to win—a winner's mentality. He also loves defending, which is something I really appreciate."

How has the experience in Sydney been?

“So far, very good. Coming to Australia has been a great experience. It’s a big sporting nation; besides football, other sports are very popular, and football itself is also very popular. We’ve received great support, which you can feel in training and during the games. Tomorrow, we expect a lot of fans to be present. The facilities here are also excellent, the training ground in Sydney is top-notch, and we are very happy.”

With more than 80,000 potentially at Olympic Stadium on Saturday night, does this atmosphere help with preseason preparation?

"Yes, you want to play good games. Even if it's a friendly, a good atmosphere, the chants, and the emotions of the fans make you feel the intensity of the game, closer to a competitive match."

What are your thoughts on working with Cole Palmer?

"I see him with a very positive mindset, a great attitude, and a real willingness to talk about football and what the team needs. In terms of his role in the team, he will be a leader on the pitch. So, the better Cole we have, the better Chelsea we can have, that's for sure. I think full training and preparation are very important for him, and he's very focused on that. We are building connections, getting to know each other, and so far I like his personality a lot."

What are your thoughts on the FIFA and World Cup controversy?

"I believe football must belong to the people, not be controlled by a few. This is how we love football: we saw a great World Cup, and it is important to defend everyone's interests. I think the common feeling among all football people is that we want football to be in everyone's hands. Hopefully, this won't happen, and we will strive to maintain football's attractiveness and authenticity, which is why it inspires emotion and passion. We see this in the World Cup, Champions League, Premier League, and all competitions, because it belongs to everyone. The more we maintain this, the better."

Does Palmer Have Something to Prove?

"My feeling is that he loves the game and wants to enjoy it. Once he enjoys the game, he will show it and he will deliver. So, the way for him to prove himself is to enjoy the game and perform at his best. He did it last season, and this season I can see he has the same desire. The goal is to have an excellent season."

Nicolas Jackson has joined the team tonight. Is he in your plans, or does he need further assessment?

"Moises and Nicolas joined the team yesterday. Nicolas is part of the squad; we welcome him, and he has been training with us since today. He can play tomorrow."

How many center-backs do you want in the squad?

"Four or five—is that a precise enough answer? (laughs)"

Regarding Caicedo, what are your thoughts on him?

"When I saw him yesterday, I felt like I had found the midfielder I had been missing. I have always admired his qualities, mental strength, and mindset from afar. I know Ecuadorian players are special; I had heard a lot before and had spoken with him on the phone, but this was our first direct contact. He is a top player, undoubtedly one of the best holding midfielders in the world. Now that he's here, it's time to start working and help him continue to improve and develop."

UEFA threatens to disqualify some countries...

"As your colleague mentioned, due to the time difference, I saw the news, but I don't have complete information. I like football the way it is now. I don't have enough information to go into detail, so I don't want to say too much about it. Once I understand more, I will have a clearer opinion."

Regarding the Premier League’s global appeal?

"This is the beauty and special charm of the Premier League. No matter where you go in the world, whether Australia, New Zealand, or Hong Kong next week, we feel the support and receive a warm welcome. Tomorrow we expect a great atmosphere, and that's why the Premier League is so special globally and so attractive to all fans."

Given Chelsea's dominance over Tottenham in recent seasons, does this make this pre-season match more important?

“It’s a good game, and it will be an exciting one. We want to play well, but it’s still pre-season, so there will be rotations and a set plan. Because it’s a friendly, the plan might not be as fixed as it would be for a competitive match, but many players will get game time, and it will definitely be exciting.”

How much freedom does Palmer need on the pitch? How do you plan for him?

"I think discipline brings freedom. With a clear tactical model and clear responsibilities, he has the ability to freely demonstrate his decision-making, talent, and qualities. But all players need to respect these principles to form a good team. I believe all the players agree with this because that's the way modern football is. Cole, Pedro, Rogers, Jamie Gittens, Dastan Satpayev — all attackers need to integrate into this mindset, and they are doing so."

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