{
  "id": 8042117,
  "title": "Alonso on ownership, Joao Pedro and Brentford",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/17/alonso-on-ownership-joao-pedro-and-brentford",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-17T14:51:30.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/alonso-ownership-joao-pedro-brentford-145130244.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso addressed the media ahead of Friday's Premier League match against Brentford at Gtech Community Stadium. He commented on the recent change in ownership, acknowledging the former owners' contributions and expressing his good relationship with Behdad Eghbali, the individual who introduced the new ownership project.\n\nAlonso emphasized Chelsea's ambition to compete for trophies, stating that the club's potential, player dimensions, and strategic vision are key factors. He acknowledged that significant time would be required to achieve this goal but reiterated the clear ambition within the organization.\n\nRegarding team news, Alonso indicated that players would be assessed in the final training session before the match, with no injuries ruling anyone out. He mentioned Brazil forward Joao Pedro's potential involvement in the match, though not for the international team, and confirmed that midfielder Moises Caicedo is nearing fitness. Alonso also discussed captain Reece James' development and the importance of maintaining peak performance in the Premier League.\n\nWhen quizzed about Brentford, Alonso praised the team's proficiency in set pieces, long throws, and fast transitions. He acknowledged the club's comprehensive approach, highlighting their strengths both with and without the ball. Alonso expressed confidence in Chelsea's ability to handle the challenge, citing the importance of preparation, experience, and the significant advantage of playing at home.",
  "summary": "Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso has been speaking to the media before Friday's Premier League game against Brentford at Gtech Community Stadium (kick-off 20:00 BST). Ecuador midfielder Moises Caicedo is \"getting closer\" to fitness.",
  "key_points": [
    "Alonso acknowledges new ownership's contributions to Chelsea.",
    "Joao Pedro potentially plays against Brentford, Caicedo near fitness.",
    "Brentford praised for proficiency in set pieces and transitions."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}