Xabi Alonso has identified Chavarría as the ideal successor to Marc Cucurella in Chelsea’s first-team plans following Cucurella’s move to Real Madrid. Initially, it appeared the deal might stall after an inflated asking price from Rayo Vallecano, but Chelsea has managed to keep the cost in check, avoiding overpaying for the 28-year-old winger/forward.
Pep Chavarría and a potential back-three formation
Chavarría’s game profile differs from that of Jorrel Hato in a key area: his average position is higher up the pitch, indicating a more forward influence on play. While this doesn’t always translate directly into goals and assists, Chavarría’s role is closer to that of a wing-back, suggesting he could thrive in a back-three system.
Chelsea’s new defensive options, including Marco Palestra and Maxence Lacroix, have also spent substantial time in a back-three setup, particularly Lacroix, who has spent much of his Premier League career in that shape during his tenure at Crystal Palace. Alonso has not yet deployed a back-three in pre-season matches, despite the success he found with the formation at Bayer Leverkusen. It seems he may have been waiting for the right personnel to implement the system, and Chavarría’s arrival could provide that catalyst.
A back-three could unlock more of Hato’s game
The three-man defense could allow Jorrel Hato to feature as one of the central defenders. Hato showed notable improvement in this role during the 2025/26 season, signaling that he could be a key part of a three-man back line.
Reece James and balance in the squad
Reece James is another player the manager will be keen to fit into a role that suits his strengths and mitigates injury concerns. His history of injuries has made it challenging to rely on him as a traditional flying wing-back, so a back-three system could offer a more sustainable setup where James has defined, protected responsibilities rather than extended overlaps.
Strategic fit and future plans
The summer signings to date appear to align with a back-three philosophy, and it remains to be seen whether this shape will be adopted before Chelsea’s Premier League opener against Fulham. If Chavarría’s arrival consolidates the right-wing depth and provides a forward-thinking wing-back profile, Alonso may implement a back three to maximize Chelsea’s balance between defense and attack.
In summary, Pep Chavarría’s addition could influence Chelsea’s tactical approach, with the potential to move the team toward a back-three system that leverages his attacking aptitude while integrating/Hato’s central defense development and James’ injury-conscious usage in a more structured defensive shape. The coming weeks will reveal how the new pieces fit together and whether the formation shift becomes Chelsea’s preferred approach for the season.
