en.malanginspirasi.com – The pre-season preparations of Chelsea have officially shifted to Indonesia, with manager Xabi Alonso and his squad arriving in Jakarta following a match against AC Milan.
Leaving behind a crowd-pleasing encounter against Italian side Juventus, the Blues wasted no time settling into their new surroundings.
Shortly after touching down mid-afternoon and checking into their hotel, the squad headed directly to the Gelora Bung Karno (GBK) Stadium to hold an open training session in front of eager local supporters.
Also Read:
Promise Kept: Marc Cucurella Inks World Cup Tribute Tattoo of Luis de la Fuente
AFA Declares July 15 National Football Teams Day After Dramatic 2026 World Cup Win Over England
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s marquee fixture, Alonso emphasized the value of connecting with the club’s global fan base.
“This is the perfect time to get close to our supporters from Indonesia or those who can come to Jakarta,’ he said during the press conference.
‘We know football is global, so while we’re based in London, we have great support everywhere and we see blue shirts wherever we have been,” he continued.
Addressing the media alongside summer defensive signing Marco Palestra, the Chelsea manager praised the squad’s professionalism and attitude throughout the rigorous tour.
Palestra, who made the high-profile switch from Cagliari earlier this summer, expressed growing confidence as he integrates into the side.
He credited the coaching staff and his new teammates for a smooth transition both on and off the pitch.
‘I am really confident here. ‘Last season I played for Cagliari and for sure it’s a big move. But I am really confident because last season I played every game in Serie A, which is a tough league to play in,” said Palestra
The upcoming clash against AC Milan serves as Chelsea’s penultimate test of their summer schedule.
Following the weekend encounter at the GBK Stadium, the Blues will immediately travel to Malaysia to face Johor Darul Ta’zim, putting the final touches on their preparations before the domestic campaign resumes.
