Xabi Alonso’s confidence in Pedro Neto on the right wing could create a selection dilemma for Chelsea as the Blues manager considers his attacking options.
Neto has established himself as a trusted option in that position, meaning any decision to deploy him centrally would require Alonso to select another player to fill the right-wing role.
Although it is still early in Alonso’s tenure, questions remain over how much confidence he currently has in Chelsea’s other wide attackers, including Estêvão Willian, Geovany Quenda and Jamie Gittens.
Gittens is also dealing with an ankle injury, which could further limit the manager’s available choices as Chelsea navigate their busy schedule.
Marco Palestra could emerge as a serious alternative. Having recently returned from a quadriceps injury, he may strengthen his chances of competing for a place in the team as he works towards full fitness.
For Alonso, the challenge will be finding the right balance across his attack while ensuring Chelsea maintain their threat out wide. Neto’s versatility offers tactical flexibility, but the performances and readiness of the other options could determine whether the manager feels comfortable making changes to his preferred setup.
With the season still developing, opportunities remain for Chelsea’s alternative wingers to convince Alonso that they deserve a bigger role.