Xabi Alonso claims Chelsea have quality players at every position despite failing to fill the void left in their midfield by Enzo Fernandezs departure. Fernandez finally made his desired move to Manchester City on transfer deadline day, joining in a deal that saw City equal the British record by paying �125million for his services.Chelsea thought they had sourced a replacement when they agreed a deal to sign Lamine Camara from Monaco, only for the Ligue 1 club to pull the plug on that transfer.It has left the Blues looking light in the middle of the park, with Romeo Lavia, Moises Caicedo, Valentin Barco and Jordan Henderson their four natural options in that position. Henderson remains sidelined with the injury he suffered at the World Cup.Right-back Reece James also regularly plays in the engine room and will likely be required to do so more often following Fernandezs exit.But Alonso insisted he is happy with his squad as they prepare to face defending Premier League champions Arsenal on Sunday.Asked about Fernandezs move, Alonso told a pre-match press conference: We take all the decisions together. We work together with big ones, small ones. We knew ultimately the goal is to have the best for the team. We want to build a good spirit, a good team.In football many things happen. With Enzo we have had conversations and always with respect. What he has done for the club has been great, but now its time to move forward. We have players with quality in every position and now we are ready to go.We can be very happy with the whole transfer window. What we started talking about in May/early June many things we have.It is a very balanced phase one we have made in this transfer window. Phase one is completed, its a good one for now and for the future.I think that we are prepared and happy with the squad and the depth we have. Its a good balance of players from different stages.We need to build that energy during the week to perform at the weekends. So far, it has been a good start and now we know who is in the building and its good to have that certainty. Topics Chelsea F.C. Premier League Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Luis Enrique gives verdict on Barcolas move from PSG to Liverpool Nicholas McGee 4th September, 2026 Liverpool confirm signing of teenager NGuessan Nicholas McGee 4th September, 2026 Ipswich v Liverpool: Preview, predicted line-ups, stats and where to watch Ben Miller 4th September, 2026 FPL 2026/27: Time to Ditch United? 5 Players to Avoid in Gameweek 3 Blake Hurst 4th September, 2026 FPL 2026/27: Back the attack five players to target in Gameweek 3 Blake Hurst 4th September, 2026 Free agents XI: Players your club could still sign on a free transfer after closing of transfer window Cian Cheesbrough 3rd September, 2026
