Merson: Alonso to use Europa League to assess Chelsea squad next season

Arsenal legend Paul Merson has predicted that Chelsea’s newly appointed manager Xabi Alonso will use the Europa Conference League as a testing ground for his squad if the Blues qualify for the competition. Merson made the prediction in his Sportskeeda column ahead of Chelsea’s final Premier League match against Sunderland on Sunday, May 24, 2026. He said Alonso could use the tournament to improvise and learn more about his players, calling it an asset for a new manager at a big club.

Alonso was recently named Chelsea’s new manager and will take charge after the current season ends. Merson’s comment suggests the Spaniard may rotate his squad, give opportunities to fringe players, and evaluate tactical setups in a lower‑pressure European competition. For Chelsea supporters, this indicates how Alonso might approach squad building and player development in his first season.

If Chelsea secure Europa Conference League qualification, fans should watch for squad rotation and which players get extended minutes. The competition could reveal Alonso’s preferences and shape the team’s direction for the 2026‑27 campaign. Will Alonso use the Conference League to blood young talent, or will he prioritize winning the trophy to kick off his Chelsea reign with silverware?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/05/22/epl-paul-merson-predicts-what-xabi-alonso-will-do-at-chelsea/