There was no sign of taking things easy for the Blues on Wednesday following our first pre-season clash, with the Chelsea players diving straight into training before visiting several spots in and around the city of Sydney.
The Blues edged out Western Sydney Wanderers 6-4 in a thrilling first pre-season game of our tour Down Under, with Joao Pedro leading the way with a hat-trick at the Accor Stadium.
Alonso and his squad were back out on the grass on Wednesday morning Australian time, putting in the yards as they continue to condition the players ahead of the new season – and before our next fixture on Saturday, which sees us lock horns with Tottenham in Sydney.
One midfielder who caught the eye against the Wanderers was Dario Essugo, who netted in the win, and he explained his mindset after the first outing of the summer tour.
‘I’m feeling good and it was nice to play again,’ the Portuguese stated. ‘It was a good match, an open match and it was enjoyable to be back out there.
‘It was good to feature. Last season was difficult, I had some struggles with injury but now I feel good and I’m looking forward to the new season.
‘I’ve enjoyed playing under the new manager [Xabi Alonso], he told me to stay in the middle and it was good to get forward and score a goal.’
After training, it was back to the team hotel for lunch before the squad was split into groups for several commercial visits in and around Sydney.
Robert Sanchez led the goalkeeping group, as they visited the Sydney Swans AFL team for a meet and greet with their players, while defenders Levi Colwill, Aaron Anselmino and Tosin Adarabioyo stopped by the iconic coastline on Bondi Beach to check out the Icebergs outdoor pool.
Meanwhile, at an exclusive Q&A and meet and greet event hosted by our official pre-season tour partner TMGM at their Sydney headquarters, four Blues spoke to guests.
Cole Palmer, Joao Pedro, Dario Essugo and Liam Delap were quizzed on their Sydney and trading knowledge before picking prize winners and having their photos taken with those in attendance, rounding off an enjoyable afternoon for all involved.
Our Soccer Schools put on a coaching clinic for local children to enjoy, with Mamadou Sarr and Jamie Gittens popping by. Back at the team hotel, Wesley Fofana and Josh Acheampong were among the players taking part in some content activations with EA Sports.
Later on, with the whole squad back at the hotel, it was time for dinner before the players chilled out, playing table tennis and darts as they relaxed ahead of another busy day ahead!