Inside Chelsea's summer: Xabi Alonso's role and recruitment overhaul

Chelsea swapped youth for experience this summer, with a special department vetting every transfer target's character.

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What happened. Chelsea's summer transfer business focused on adding experienced players, with a collaborative recruitment model and a dedicated scouting section checking character.

• Alonso expressed need for more maturity in the squad during interview process.
• Co-owner Behdad Eghbali used 'ready-made' term in April.
• Chelsea have five sporting directors, including new addition Dave Fallows.

“Ready-made was the term used by co-owner Behdad Eghbali at a Los Angeles conference in April.”

— Behdad Eghbali

Chelsea's new approach aims to balance youth with experience, with Alonso's input but not sole control over recruitment.

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