Xabi Alonso called out on US television after Chelsea’s EFL Cup exit, ‘He wouldn’t be saying that’

Xabi Alonso named a strong starting XI as Chelsea travelled to Anfield to face his former club Liverpool in the Carabao Cup fourth round. The Blues delivered a much-improved performance after their disappointing 2-0 defeat to Tottenham last weekend, but ultimately suffered another frustrating result.

Morgan Rogers and Cody Gakpo scored first-half penalties to level the tie at 1-1 after 90 minutes, before Liverpool eventually prevailed 6-5 in the shootout. While Chelsea can take several positives from the game, former Premier League midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker criticised Alonso after his post-match interview on CBS Sports.

Chelsea are OUT of the Carabao Cup on penalties… give us your instant reaction 👇

Xabi Alonso did not hide his disappointment after Chelsea’s Carabao Cup exit, but his post-match comments about the competition’s importance raised eyebrows. “This is the least important competition for us and now the Premier League is the main focus,” he said.

While the EFL Cup may be below the Premier League and FA Cup prestige, dismissing it so openly after a defeat came across as sour grapes to some observers. Nigel Reo-Coker was among those who questioned Alonso’s explanation.

Speaking to CBS Sports, the ex-West Ham, Aston Villa and Bolton midfielder, who made more than 200 Premier League appearances, pointed to the strength of Chelsea’s starting XI as evidence that Alonso had taken the tie seriously.

Reo-Coker explained: “He wouldn’t be saying that if they won, not at all. If it’s not important, why are you starting Caicedo? Why are you starting Lavia? Why are you starting Jordan Henderson? Why are you starting regular starters in your team for not an important competition?

“This is the least important competition for us.” 🤔 Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso after being eliminated from the Carabao Cup 😳 https://t.co/ep7vo3wTwm

“You could have put out all the youngsters they have; Chelsea have a lot of young players that they’ve brought in in this project for the future. You could have played all the kids but you played some experienced players in this for a reason.”

Alonso did name a strong side at Anfield, with Levi Colwill the only first-choice player rested. Chelsea’s line-up was arguably stronger than the one selected by Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola, making Alonso’s suggestion that the competition was of little importance all the more surprising.

His comments have also frustrated some Chelsea supporters on social media, many of whom were desperate to see their side progress, particularly given that they have not won a domestic cup since 2018. Although the Blues delivered a decent performance, Alonso’s response has shifted the focus away from the football and drawn further criticism towards the head coach.