Maurizio Sarri has claimed Marcos Alonso is the best at his position in the world right now, although the Italian believes there is still room for improvement for the marauding fullback, especially in defence.
Alonso was at his scintillating best once again for the Blues as two late goals saw them beat Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge. Constantly bombing forward into advanced positions, the Spaniard rattled a strike into the post while also playing a key role in both Chelsea goals.
Alonso teed up Pedro at the top of the D and the winger exchanged one-twos with fellow substitute Olivier Giroud before firing a low strike into the far corner. The fullback had a more direct hand in his side’s second goal as he created Hazard’s strike, laying the ball off for the Belgian who powered his shot through ex-Blues goalkeeper Asmir Begovic and into the back of the net.
Despite spending the past two seasons in a wingback role under Antonio Conte, the Spaniard has adapted well to the left-back position and the Chelsea head coach has claimed there may be no one better playing in the Spaniard’s position right now in the continent. Speaking after the game against the Cherries, Sarri said: “Alonso, at the moment, in this position at left-back is maybe the best in Europe. Physical qualities at a top level, I think.”
Sarri further expounded on his claim about the Chelsea star, saying that while Alonso has been unrivalled in attack, the 27-year-old could still develop his defensive instincts, and that such combination will allow the fullback to turn into the world’s best in his position. “He’s doing very well in the offensive phase. But I also think he can improve in the defensive phase,” added Sarri. If he improves that, he could be the best left-back in the world.”
The Spaniard’s blistering displays at the Blues’ left flank this season has earned him a call-up to the La Roja squad to face England and Croatia, to add to his solitary cap earned earlier in March against Argentina.
