Xabi Alonso slams Chelsea’s performance after shock defeat to Sunderland

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has criticised his players following their disappointing 1-0 defeat to Sunderland in Sunday’s Premier League encounter at the Stadium of Light.

The Blues suffered an unexpected setback against a Sunderland side that had managed just one victory in their previous nine league matches. Enzo Le Fee’s penalty proved decisive after Levi Colwill was adjudged to have fouled Brian Brobbey inside the box.

According to Metro⁠, Alonso refused to blame the controversial decision, insisting Chelsea were responsible for their own downfall.”I haven’t seen it back. Nothing to comment on the referee. It is something that is our fault. We could have done better.”

The Spaniard also questioned his team’s attacking display, particularly their inability to break down Sunderland’s defensive setup. “We didn’t produce enough to deserve to win,” he admitted, adding that Chelsea lacked patience, quality and creativity in the final third.

The defeat left Chelsea fifth, while Sunderland climbed to 18th.