# Xabi Alonso says League Cup is Chelsea’s least important competition

- URL: https://apitofinal.pt/en/internacional-en/xabi-alonso-says-league-cup-is-chelseas-least-important-competition/
- Published: 2026-10-29T08:23:52+00:00
- Updated: 2026-10-29T08:26:11+00:00
- Publisher: Apito Final (apitofinal.pt)
- Section: Internacional
- Tags: Carabao Cup, Chelsea, Wesley Fofana, Xabi Alonso

## Article

Xabi Alonso has said Chelsea’s elimination from the English League Cup does not cost him any sleep. After the 1-1 draw at Anfield, which ended in a 6-5 defeat on penalties, the head coach made it clear that this is the least important competition on the club’s list of priorities this season.

Wesley Fofana’s miss in the decisive penalty added to the frustration, but Alonso quickly shifted the focus to the Premier League campaign.

Speaking after the match, Alonso said: “This is the least important competition for us.” The head coach stressed that the team’s main focus is on the Premier League, where Chelsea currently sit fifth.

Alonso’s comment, also reported by The Guardian, underlines the need for the team to change mindset quickly, given the short recovery time before the next league match.

## The match and criticism of Alonso’s management

Despite the elimination, Chelsea’s official website took a slightly more upbeat tone, highlighting the players’ courage and competitiveness at Anfield. The team had taken the lead through Morgan Rogers, but Cody Gakpo equalised for Liverpool, sending the match to penalties.

However, Alonso’s management came in for criticism, with Clinton Morrison and Jobi McAnuff questioning the decision to keep Estevao Willian on the bench despite the need for an attacking spark.

## A risk for Chelsea

While Alonso has his strategy, the statement that the League Cup is the “least important” competition could be seen as a risk. Chelsea have a squad built to compete for trophies, and supporters are unlikely to accept the idea of ignoring a genuine chance to win a title.

The question now is how the team will respond. If Chelsea can climb the Premier League table and challenge for the top places, Alonso’s words may quickly be forgotten. If their league form deteriorates, this defeat could be seen as a missed opportunity rather than a sensible sacrifice.

Alonso has therefore put pressure on his team by publicly declaring that the Premier League is the priority. Chelsea now have to prove they can deliver results in that competition, especially with a crucial match coming up against a struggling Manchester United.

The continuing fight for a place at the top of the league will be decisive for Alonso’s future in charge of the team.