Neville slams Chelsea defence but backs top-three finish — SkimNews
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- Gary Neville described Chelsea's back three as 'all over the place' and lacking cohesion, comparing them unfavorably to elite units like Juventus' Barzagli-Bonucci-Chiellini trio
- Chelsea conceded their seventh goal in three Premier League games, highlighting ongoing defensive fragility under new manager Xabi Alonso
- Xabi Alonso acknowledged Chelsea need to be 'tighter, more clinical, more balanced' defensively, stressing it will take time to build solidity after taking charge in May
- Gary Neville believes Chelsea can finish second or third this season, calling it the most positive he’s felt about the club in four or five years despite the Arsenal defeat
- Arsenal defeated Chelsea 2-1 at home, coming from behind after Morgan Rogers scored for Chelsea within 77 seconds
Why it matters: Chelsea’s early-season defensive record — seven goals conceded in three games — makes their ability to sustain a top-three challenge hinge on rapid improvement or transfer activity. Neville’s endorsement signals growing external belief in Alonso’s project, even as performance gaps remain evident against elite sides.
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