Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso heaped praise on Dastan Satpayev after the Kazakhstani scored his debut goal for the London club, highlighting the 17-year-old's speed, physicality, and movement. "I've known Dastan since last year when he played for Kairat in Almaty. It's immediately clear that he is a special player," Alonso told football.london, as reported by infohub.kz.
Satpayev found the net in Chelsea's first preseason match under the Spanish coach. The Kazakhstani started on the left flank and opened the scoring in the seventh minute against Western Sydney Wanderers. The Blues won 6-4.
According to Alonso, the Kazakhstani can threaten goal both from the wing and when cutting inside. "He constantly poses a threat to the opponent's goal, is very good at attacking the space between the lines, plays close to the striker, and moves intelligently from the flank," the coach noted.
The Chelsea boss also praised Satpayev's adaptation after his move from Kazakhstan. "For him, this is his first experience after moving from Kazakhstan and his first steps in our club, and so far he has made a very good impression."
When asked if Satpayev is ready for the intensity and physical demands of the English Premier League, Alonso highlighted qualities that could help him adjust. "He is very strong physically and very fast. I think he will truly impress you," Alonso added.
A final decision on Satpayev's future for the 2026/27 season has not yet been announced. After the preseason, the coaching staff will determine whether the Kazakhstani stays in the first team or is sent on loan. Competition in Chelsea's attacking line remains high: Alonso has João Pedro, Liam Delap, Jamie Gittens, Cole Palmer, Estevão, and Pedro Neto at his disposal, as well as newcomers Giovanni Kenda and Emmanuel Emegha.
Additionally, journalist Florian Plettenberg of Sky Sport Germany reported that Chelsea has reached a full agreement with Brighton for the transfer of Danny Welbeck. The 35-year-old striker is expected to sign a contract with the Blues until 2028.