New Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso confirmed Reece James will remain club captain for the upcoming season. The 26-year-old right-back, who came through the academy, was appointed captain in August 2023 and made 39 appearances last season despite injury struggles. Alonso praised James's versatility and "blue DNA" in an exclusive Sky Sports News interview.

Alonso also wants Enzo Fernandez to stay at Stamford Bridge. The 25-year-old Argentina midfielder joined from Benfica in January 2023 for a British-record £106.8m and scored 10 Premier League goals last season. Despite transfer speculation, Real Madrid denied interest, and Alonso said he has spoken privately with Fernandez about remaining.

Meanwhile, winger Alejandro Garnacho, 22, may leave after missing the first training session. Sky Sports News reports Chelsea are prepared to sell for £50m, with Roma among interested clubs. Alonso confirmed discussions with sporting directors about Garnacho's future.

Striker Nicolas Jackson will join the pre-season tour of Asia after a loan spell at Bayern Munich. Alonso emphasized his philosophy and ambition, targeting European qualification as a key goal for his first season.