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“Passive” Chelsea accused of playing like a small team against rivals at home

Xabi Alonso set up Chelsea to play on the counter, but the idea never really looked like working and the Blues were beaten. If you…

By Will Faulks · Talk Chelsea

Published: Sunday, 25 October 2026 at 7:00 PM

Key Things to Know

Journalist Kieran Gill accused Chelsea and manager Xabi Alonso of a passive tactical display against Tottenham.
Chelsea held only 32 percent possession during the home defeat to their London rivals.
Cole Palmer was sent off with a red card, ending Chelsea's hopes of a late comeback.

The Story in 60 Seconds

The Daily Mail's Kieran Gill criticized Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso for his passive tactical setup following a home defeat against Tottenham. Gill argued that Chelsea played without authority and showed no ingenuity while registering just 32 percent possession. Talk Chelsea's Will Faulks agreed with the assessment, noting the club failed to compete effectively with their rivals.

Chelsea's comeback hopes ended following a red card shown to Cole Palmer, which Faulks labeled as naive. The match also featured a technical error from goalkeeper Mike Penders on a punch that led to a Tottenham goal, an incident discussed post-match by Alonso and pundit Joe Cole.

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“Passive” Chelsea accused of playing like a small team against rivals at home

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