Xabi Alonso Forced to Axe 13 Chelsea Players Due to Premier League Rule

According to a report by Football London on Thursday, July 23, 2026, Chelsea are preparing to make significant changes to their first-team squad as manager Xabi Alonso continues his overhaul ahead of the new Premier League season. The Blues are expected to trim their squad before the registration deadline, with several players likely to leave Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea have already strengthened the squad with three important arrivals this summer. Record signing Morgan Rogers has joined the club, while Italian full-back Marco Palestra and Portuguese winger Geovany Quenda have also completed moves to west London as Alonso looks to build a competitive side.

With no European competitions to participate in this season, Chelsea will focus solely on domestic football. Alonso hopes the reduced fixture schedule, combined with his new additions, will help the club challenge for a return to European qualification.

Reports indicate that Chelsea currently have 38 players under contract, the largest squad in the Premier League. League regulations allow clubs to register only 25 senior players, meaning several members of the squad will have to be left out or moved on before the campaign begins.

A number of players are already facing uncertain futures. Some are expected to secure permanent transfers, while others could remain at the club but feature only in domestic cup competitions if they are not included in the league squad.

Among those widely tipped to leave are returning loanees Axel Disasi and David Datro Fofana. Goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen is also reportedly keen to move elsewhere in search of more regular playing opportunities.

Chelsea’s defensive department could also undergo changes, with Benoit Badiashile, Tosin Adarabioyo and Trevoh Chalobah all said to be uncertain about their positions in Alonso’s plans ahead of the new season.

In attack, Liam Delap, Marc Guiu, Deivid Washington and Nicolas Jackson are also among the players whose futures remain unresolved. Their performances during pre-season and Chelsea’s final squad decisions are expected to determine whether they stay or leave before the transfer window closes.