Xabi Alonso backs Emmanuel Emegha to make impact at Chelsea

Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso has praised Emmanuel Emegha’s physical qualities and expressed confidence that the striker can become a dangerous attacking option once he recovers from his injury problems.

The 23-year-old Netherlands international is still waiting to make his competitive debut for the Blues after joining from sister club Strasbourg. A persistent hamstring injury has disrupted his progress, while a minor setback in training has further delayed his return.

Emegha scored eight goals in 18 appearances during his loan spell at Strasbourg in the 2025/26 season. He also found the net in pre-season matches against Crawley Town and Bromley, but has yet to feature in a competitive game for Chelsea.

Speaking ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash against Everton, Alonso confirmed that the forward would not be available but could resume training next week.

“He’s not ready yet; he felt something yesterday, a little thing. He’s going to be training next week, but he’s still not 100 per cent fit to be playing in the game,” Alonso said.

The Spanish coach believes Emegha has the attributes to trouble opposition defences, highlighting his height, pace and ability to exploit space behind defenders.

“When he’s fit, he’s very special because he’s 1.95 metres, he’s quick, he attacks the space, he’s a threat, so he needs to be fully fit,” he explained.

Alonso added that Chelsea are eager to have the striker available, although his repeated fitness problems have prevented him from contributing so far.

“But it’s going to be difficult for the defenders when he’s in good shape,” he said.

Chelsea reportedly rejected a late summer loan move for Emegha because Alonso wanted to retain him as part of his attacking plans. The club will now hope the Dutchman can complete his recovery and finally begin his competitive career at Stamford Bridge.