DriV

🚨 🇧🇷: Xabi Alonso fires back at critics over Estêvão Willian benching! The Chelsea boss has defended his decision to leave the 19-year-old sensation as an unused substitute during the Blues' dramatic Carabao Cup exit to Liverpool at Anfield. Despite traveling Chelsea fans loudly chanting for the Brazilian winger, Alonso opted for other changes, a move that sparked instant backlash from pundits and supporters after Chelsea lost the penalty shootout. Alonso revealed that injuries completely disrupted his tactical plans: "Moi [Caicedo] had little problems. Malo [Gusto] had cramps. We were a little bit forced with substitutions. I understand his situation and that he could be happier for sure... but the season is going to be long and Este is going to play his role." With the front three of Pedro Neto, Danny Welbeck, and Morgan Rogers starting the physical clash, Alonso insists the teenager's time will come: "Trust me, I’m sure the season is going to be long and Este will have his moment." Did Alonso make the right call protecting the youngster, or should he have unleashed him?