New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has confirmed that Reece James will remain Chelsea captain as he begins work at Stamford Bridge, while also making it clear that he wants Enzo Fernandez to stay at the club despite ongoing transfer speculation.
Alonso was officially unveiled as Chelsea’s new manager this week and used his first press conference to outline some of his plans for the squad ahead of the 2026/27 Premier League season and the Chelsea pre-season tour.
The Spaniard inherited a dressing room that has experienced significant change over the past two years, but he has wasted little time in backing two of the club’s most important figures.
James Retains Chelsea Captaincy
James was appointed Chelsea captain in August 2023 and will continue wearing the armband under Alonso.
The England international has struggled with injuries in recent seasons, but Alonso believes his leadership qualities make him the right man to lead the squad.
The Chelsea boss praised James’ connection to the club and highlighted the importance of having academy graduates in leadership positions.
Alonso believes James understands what Chelsea represents and can help pass that identity on to younger members of the squad. Despite his fitness setbacks, the defender remains one of the most influential figures in the dressing room.
James has spent his entire professional career at Stamford Bridge after progressing through Chelsea’s academy, making him the longest-serving players in the current squad.
His versatility is also something Alonso values highly, with the defender capable of playing at right-back, wing-back and in midfield when required.
“He [Reece James] can do everything,” said Alonso in an exclusive interview with Sky Sports News.
“He can attack from inside or outside. He can deliver, he’s good at set-pieces, he has blue DNA, which is very important, and we transmit that to the whole team and new players. He’s going to be the captain.”
New Chelsea Manager Alonso Keen to Keep Fernandez
Another major talking point during Alonso’s first press conference was the future of Enzo Fernandez.
The Argentina international has been heavily linked with a move away from Chelsea this summer, with Fernandez Real Madrid links the strongest among the clubs reported to have shown interest.
However, the Chelsea manager made it clear that he wants Fernandez to remain at Stamford Bridge.
The former Bayer Leverkusen manager revealed that he has already spoken privately with the midfielder but declined to reveal the details of those conversations.
Instead, Alonso stressed that those discussions would remain between himself and the player.
While refusing to comment on speculation surrounding Fernandez Real Madrid links, the Chelsea boss left little doubt about his preference.
He views the World Cup winner as an important player and is looking forward to working with him ahead of the 2026/27 Premier League season.
“Enzo’s a great player and we are looking forward to having him and start working together,” Alonso said.
Chelsea Facing Key Summer Decisions
Fernandez is not the only player whose future remains uncertain ahead of the 2026/27 Premier League campaign.
Alonso also addressed questions surrounding Alejandro Garnacho, confirming Chelsea have received interest in the winger.
“The situation is that we have spoken with the sporting directors and there is an interest for him from other clubs,” the Chelsea manager said.
“So let’s see how this develops. But hopefully, it finishes in the best possible way for all parties.”
Meanwhile, striker Nicolas Jackson is expected to be given another opportunity to impress.
After spending last season on loan at Bayern Munich, Jackson will return for the Chelsea pre-season tour and will have the chance to fight for his place under Alonso.
“I look forward to starting with Nico at that time [the Chelsea pre-season tour],” he said.
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Building a New Chelsea
Alonso takes over as Chelsea manager after another disappointing campaign for the London side, who finished outside the European places following another managerial change.
The former Liverpool, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich midfielder acknowledged the challenge ahead but believes the club already possesses the foundations needed to improve.
Rather than calling for a complete rebuild, Alonso suggested only targeted additions would be required to help Chelsea compete again.
He also emphasised the importance of creating a strong team identity, with commitment, discipline and consistency among his priorities.
Keeping experienced leaders such as James and key midfielders like Fernandez appears central to that vision.
Chelsea captain Reece James provides leadership and a direct link to Chelsea’s academy, while Fernandez remains one of the squad’s most talented players despite ongoing transfer speculation.
With pre-season now underway, Alonso’s immediate task will be preparing the squad for the new Premier League season while resolving several outstanding transfer situations.
His first major decisions have already offered a glimpse of the direction he wants Chelsea to take.
Backing James to continue as captain provides continuity during another period of change, while his desire to keep Fernandez sends a strong message that Chelsea are not looking to lose one of their biggest stars without a fight.
Whether both players remain central figures throughout the season remains to be seen, but Alonso has made his position clear as he begins his new chapter at Stamford Bridge.
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