According to a report by Metro on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has questioned whether Maxence Lacroix is suited to Xabi Alonso’s tactical system at Chelsea, arguing that the £52 million summer signing appears uncomfortable when required to defend in a back four.

Speaking on The Overlap Fan Debate with Sky Bet, Carragher said he had been impressed by Lacroix’s performances at Crystal Palace, particularly when the defender operated in a back three.

However, he expressed doubts about the 26-year-old’s ability to adapt to Alonso’s tactical demands, especially the man-to-man marking system employed by the Chelsea manager.

“But I look at the signing of Maxence Lacroix, and I really liked him at Crystal Palace in a back three,” Carragher said. “But I was watching you against Tottenham and in other games this season, and I was seeing him pressing man-to-man, and everyone was jumping out, and it just didn't look comfortable to me.”

Lacroix joined Chelsea from Crystal Palace in July and signed a six-year contract. He has featured in all eight of the club’s Premier League matches this season, mainly playing as a centre-back in a back five.

However, Alonso has also experimented with a back four, forcing the defender to adjust to different responsibilities within the defensive setup.

Carragher also raised broader concerns about Chelsea’s defensive options, arguing that the team lacks an outstanding defender who can provide leadership and consistency at the back.

The former England international, however, praised young right-back Josh Acheampong, suggesting that the Cobham academy graduate has been performing well under Alonso.

Chelsea’s defensive record has also come under scrutiny, with the Blues conceding 15 goals in their opening eight Premier League matches and recording just one clean sheet during that period.

They have also struggled to defend set pieces, allowing eight goals from such situations.

Alonso’s side will look to improve defensively when they face Liverpool in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday before turning their attention to Saturday’s Premier League clash with Manchester United.