Jamie Gittens is embracing the competitive landscape at Chelsea, viewing the club’s record-breaking £117 million signing of Morgan Rogers as a positive sign of their ambition to reclaim top titles. Despite the increased competition on the left wing, Gittens expressed enthusiasm for the challenge, seeing it as a catalyst for the team’s pursuit of major honours.
Welcoming New Competition and Ambitions
Gittens, a product of the Manchester City academy like Rogers, shared his perspective on the significant acquisition. “We want to win everything – that is our ambition, to win the Premier League, the FA Cup, win anything that we’re in,” Gittens stated. “Bringing in a player like Morgan will hopefully raise the bar to win titles.” He sees this move not as a threat, but as a necessary step for Chelsea to return to their winning ways.
The 21-year-old Englishman recently garnered a warm reception from the 4,500 Chelsea fans present at an open training session in Sydney. During an interview, Gittens paused to sign the shirt of a young pitch invader, a gesture that was met with applause, highlighting a moment of connection with the supporters.
Overcoming Injury and Focusing on Personal Goals
Gittens’ first season at Chelsea, following a £52 million transfer from Borussia Dortmund, was significantly hampered by a hamstring injury sustained in January. He is now nearing full fitness and eager to make his mark. “I feel at 92 per cent,” Gittens reported, expressing increased confidence as his physical condition improves. “I’m feeling much better, more confident now my body is better, the hamstrings are good, so I’m waiting for the season to start.”
He detailed his rigorous summer training regimen in Portugal and Marbella, aimed at maximizing his readiness for the upcoming season. “It was hard, because this was the first muscle injury I’ve had. I’ve never had hamstring injuries before. Never with the hamstring,” he admitted. “It was a challenge at the start, but I’m better now so I feel more confident. It was hard for me, but I’m here now and hopefully I can get back and tell myself that I did good in the situation.”
Gittens has set personal objectives for the next season, which he has documented privately. While he chose not to disclose the specifics, he emphasized his commitment to succeeding at the club. “This is such a big club. I want to succeed here. I need to show people what I can do. I’ll keep working hard. I’ve shown glimpses, I would say. Small bits. But this season will be a good season.”
Training Insights and Managerial Guidance
During the training session in Sydney, Gittens was observed participating in drills focusing on crossing from the left wing, alongside teammates like Cole Palmer and academy graduate Landon Emenalo. The team also practiced crossing from the right, featuring players such as Estevao and Aaron Anselmino.
The club is also set to welcome Austin MacPhee as a set-piece specialist, who is expected to join from Aston Villa, the same club Morgan Rogers is arriving from. Bernardo Cueva is transitioning to an off-pitch role within the club.
Chelsea is scheduled to play friendlies against the Western Sydney Wanderers and Tottenham in Sydney before heading to Asia. Head coach Xabi Alonso was actively involved in the training sessions, demonstrating techniques and providing guidance.
Alonso’s Message to Gittens
Gittens shared the specific advice he has received from manager Xabi Alonso. “He wants me to keep being positive, to keep on taking on players, to keep on creating chances and to keep on pushing myself to the maximum,” Gittens revealed. He expressed appreciation for Alonso’s approach, noting his individual attention to player development.
“He’s a very nice guy. He talks to us individually, speaks to us about what we can improve on, what we can do better. As a player, that’s all you want,” Gittens said. He believes Alonso’s tactical approach, which often utilizes wingers in a 4-3-3 formation, will suit his playing style. “I think (his style can suit him as a winger). Last season was a 4-3-3 as well with two wingers which is always good, so let’s just see. Our quality is there, for sure, as a team and we have individuals on the pitch who can do amazing things.”
Focusing on Personal Development
When asked about the departure of Alejandro Garnacho, who is leaving Chelsea after one season following his £40 million transfer from Manchester United, Gittens maintained a focus on his own performance. “To be honest, I just look at myself,” he stated. “I don’t look at anyone else. I just focus on myself and try to be better.”
Having previously played against Alonso’s successful Bayer Leverkusen side during his time at Dortmund, Gittens is familiar with the manager’s tactical acumen. He is now determined to excel under Alonso at Chelsea and secure his place in the team, even with the significant competition posed by the arrival of Morgan Rogers.
Gittens’ journey at Chelsea has been marked by challenges, particularly his injury setback. However, his current outlook is one of optimism and determination, fueled by the club’s ambitious plans and the clear guidance from his manager. The upcoming season presents a crucial opportunity for him to demonstrate his capabilities and contribute to Chelsea’s quest for silverware.
