Xabi Alonso prepares Chelsea for Arsenal with unusual rugby training
Chelsea have added rugby-style contact drills to their preparations as Xabi Alonso looks to prevent Arsenal from exploiting their renowned set-piece strength.
Chelsea have taken an unconventional approach to their preparations for Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Arsenal, with Xabi Alonso introducing rugby-style contact drills at Cobham as he looks to strengthen his side against the Gunners’ set-piece threat.
Players were seen using large tackle shields and crash pads during training, with Valentin Barco and Pep Chavarria among those involved in the physical exercises.
The drills are designed to recreate the type of intense contact Chelsea could face when defending corners and other dead-ball situations at the Emirates.
Arsenal have established themselves as one of the Premier League’s most dangerous teams from set pieces, with their corner routines repeatedly creating problems for opponents.
They scored 19 goals directly from corners during the 2025-26 Premier League campaign, setting a new league record, underlining why Alonso has placed particular attention on that area.
Chelsea have made a strong start to Alonso’s reign, winning their opening two league matches before also progressing in the Carabao Cup, but defensive concerns remain after conceding five goals across their first two Premier League games.
The London derby therefore presents a significant test for a Chelsea side still adapting to their new manager’s methods. Arsenal, meanwhile, have begun their title defence with two victories and two clean sheets, including a 1-0 win over Aston Villa in their latest league outing.
Alonso will hope the rugby-inspired exercises can help his players cope with Arsenal’s physical approach inside the penalty area while maintaining their discipline under pressure.
With both teams unbeaten at this early stage of the campaign, the Emirates meeting promises to provide an important indication of Chelsea’s defensive progress and their ability to handle one of the league’s strongest set-piece sides.
