Did Chelsea benefit most from extended international break?

Chelsea may have gained the most advantage from the extended three-week international break in the Premier League, according to senior club officials. The break came at the right time for the Blues, with new manager Xabi Alonso searching for answers within his system after moving to a back three. The team conceded a league-high 12 goals before the break but showed improvement, thanks to adjustments such as deeper defending and altered build-up play.

The return of key midfielder Moises Caicedo, who had been sidelined due to a calf injury, was a major factor, as well as the presence of Joao Pedro, Marco Palestra, and Emmanuel Emegha. Palmer, who signed an extended contract, also played a crucial role, along with other returning players. The international break allowed the squad to recover and prepare for future opponents, with Alonso stating that the team had used the time productively.