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Marcos Alonso spent two and a half years ruling the left (wing-)back lineup spot on Chelsea teamsheets, but over the back half of last season, his minutes started trending down while the younger and more dynamic Emerson’s were trending up. Unsurprisingly, while many players spoke of their enjoyment of Sarri-ball, Alonso was a fair bit less enthusiastic, finding it confusing, even, at times.
But that was the past. This summer is a fresh start for many, and Alonso is no exception.
“I think it’s a fresh start for everyone. Last year is part of the past and now I just want to keep working, enjoy playing and to help the team win and get better.
“Of course I would love to play every minute and to always be in there. Things happen like this and now it’s a new season. I’m very happy, training very well and looking forward to the start of the season.”
A brief turn in the rumor mill aside — Atlético rumored before they were priced out and turned to Renan Lodi from Brazil instead — Alonso isn’t looking to leave by any means. With four years left on the long-term contract extension he signed last fall, he’s got many more goals to score yet for Chelsea.
“Of course [I’m committed to Chelsea]. I signed a new contract last year and I’m very happy here. I don’t know if there’s been any contact [from any teams], you will have to speak to Marina [Granovskaia] about that.
“I have four more years here and I’m very happy. Last three years have been amazing and I want more of that. I want to keep playing and winning things.”
-Marcos Alonso; source: Football.London
With the promise of another 60-game season ahead, there will be plenty of opportunities for both Alonso and Emerson — and the competition for minutes should only benefit the team.