Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has urged his players to maintain their composure as they prepare to face Tottenham in a high-stakes London derby. The fixture, marked by intensity and historical significance, presents a challenge for the Blues, who have notably improved their disciplinary record compared to last season.

During the August to October period of the previous campaign, Chelsea received six red cards, undermining their performance and contributing to a tenth-place finish that saw them miss out on European competition. Alonso, who took charge this summer alongside the arrival of veteran midfielder Jordan Henderson, emphasized the importance of emotional control in preventing reckless fouls and unnecessary bookings.

“For me, it comes a lot with emotional control, with the control of the game,” Alonso said, stressing the need for focus and preparation on the pitch. He highlighted that maintaining composure helps avoid “stupid yellow cards” and penalties, which can shift the momentum unfavorably in such heated encounters.

Henderson, 36, who could start his fourth consecutive full match for Chelsea, has been credited by Alonso with bringing much-needed experience and calm to the squad. The former Liverpool captain’s influence is seen as key to managing the pressure in high-intensity matches like this one.

Alonso acknowledged the difficulty of keeping cool in the Premier League’s atmosphere, where fans often encourage physicality and emotional displays. “It is really difficult,” he said. “You know that if you concede one, the energy is coming, and you need to control the momentum. We are expecting a good atmosphere, electric, with good energy, knowing that in a derby this passion is really in the air in the stadium. We need to use it in a proper way.”

The Chelsea lineup will see Mike Penders make his Premier League debut in goal due to the absence of Emiliano Martinez. Alonso drew parallels between the 21-year-old Penders and Real Madrid’s Thibaut Courtois, a Belgian goalkeeper who also once played for Chelsea. The manager revealed he had consulted Courtois during the summer, seeking insights into Penders’ attributes. “Thibaut said himself that he could see resemblances with Mike,” Alonso noted.

As Chelsea prepare to face Tottenham, the team’s improved discipline and strategic emphasis on emotional regulation will be crucial factors in navigating what promises to be a fervent and physically demanding derby.