Many observers believe the 18-year-old son of former Chelsea technical director Michael Emenalo has been the standout performer so far.
He has logged more minutes than any teammate across the first two matches, filling in at left-back despite a background in midfield, and has effectively covered the gap left by Marc Cucurella’s move to Real Madrid.
Emenalo first trained with Chelsea’s senior squad under Mauricio Pochettino in 2023 and is now working with his fourth permanent manager.
Aiming to impress, he has studied Alonso’s approach through extensive video work and, like many professionals, joined a post-season training camp organised by his agency.
In a video for the camp, he said he hopes to make his mark on the first team and leave a strong impression, adding that he needs to play in a professional environment after a lifetime’s worth of youth football.
Among Cobham’s academy players yet to debut for Chelsea, Emenalo may be the most ready for senior action and has a strong chance of featuring in front of crowds in Australia.