I agree with this; Chelsea in one phase, build with a back four, using an extra midfielder to control possession In another, the full backs tuck inside or push higher, creating a back three, overloading the midfield and giving the attackers more freedom between the lines.
The formation on paper is only the starting point the real danger lies in how Chelsea transform their shape depending on the situation that is what makes Alonso’s football difficult to prepare for opponents cannot simply study the starting XI and decide how to press, where to defend or which spaces to protect.
They must constantly adjust to Chelsea’s movements, rotations and positional changes and when one player moves, another must react. If the opposition gets that adjustment wrong, Chelsea can create numerical advantages, open passing lanes and isolate defenders in dangerous areas.
Alonso isn't just changing formations; he's changing the problems Chelsea pose to their opponents throughout the game.
Even some Chelsea fans do not fully understand Xabi Alonso’s formation, so imagine how confusing it must be for rival fans and coaches.
His system is not straightforward: the shape changes depending on the phase of play, with players taking up different positions in and out of possession.
That constant movement is what makes his teams so difficult to read and prepare for.