Chelsea continued their pre-season preparations with a clash against Malaysian outfit Johor Darul Ta’zim, in what was their final fixture away from Stamford Bridge before the new campaign gets underway.
Blues supporters will have the chance to watch Xabi Alonso take charge of his first match at Stamford Bridge next Saturday when Chelsea welcome Real Sociedad.
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There is plenty of anticipation among the Chelsea faithful ahead of seeing their team under the Spaniard, with fans eager to get their first glimpse of the club’s summer recruits and how Alonso intends to introduce his footballing philosophy.
Alonso looks to be putting the finishing touches to his squad ahead of the new season, with Chelsea competing with Real Madrid for the signature of Martin Zubimendi. A number of departures from Stamford Bridge are also still expected before the summer window closes.
However, supporters have already made their feelings known about one player they would like to see leave the club, particularly following his display against Johor Darul Ta’zim.
Get Tosin out of my club pic.twitter.com/pWIfRyCpYP
— Babs (@Fijaborn3) August 9, 2026
Tosin Adarabioyo came in for heavy criticism from Chelsea fans, with many holding the centre-back responsible for the opening goal conceded by the Blues.
The goal arrived on the counter as Marcos Guilherme raced down the left before sending the ball across the penalty area, where Arif Aiman was on hand to tap it home.
Supporters took to social media to voice their frustration with Tosin’s display, with some calling for the defender to be sold. They argued that his weaknesses make him unsuitable for the high defensive line and tactical approach Alonso is looking to introduce.
Uncle Tosin fighting in Preseason. He thinks he’s gonna deceive us. pic.twitter.com/uirlOjohWo
— (@Varticoo) August 9, 2026
One fan said: “Tosin is probably a great person to have in and around the dressing room; I don’t doubt that, but when you have a system that has us playing high for a lot of the game, it just isn’t his strength.”
Another added: “I said this even before the match started, and they called me a madman. Anytime I see Tosin in our starting lineup, I just know our defense line is a major weak link for that day. Can someone please send Tosin out of my club?”
While a supporter stated: “I really despise the whole ‘get out of my club’ type of statements in football. But Tosin, man. You’ve got to go; it’s got to be so embarrassing for him. He’s clearly the worst player on the pitch in every game, and I’m not exaggerating…”
Essugo gave away the ball, uncle Tosin delegating defence instead of blocking the shot. These guys a total joke. pic.twitter.com/C1EOgtKMvL
— NewEra (@NewEraCFC) August 9, 2026
Tosin continued to be involved in the action during the opening half, showing his physicality as he battled with the opposition during a Chelsea corner.
Although some fans acknowledged that Tosin was working hard and attempting to prove to Alonso that he deserves a place in the squad, they remained unconvinced that he possesses the required quality.
Chelsea eventually restored parity from the penalty spot in the 42nd minute. Liam Delap converted after earning the spot-kick with a clever movement inside the box, sending the ball into the roof of the net as both teams went into the break level.
After the restart, Tosin’s display did little to change the minds of his critics. Nevertheless, as the contest became increasingly heated, the defender showed his willingness to stand up for his teammates. Following a heavy challenge on Delap, Tosin immediately intervened to protect his fellow player while also making his case to the referee.
The Blues moved ahead shortly after the hour mark when Delap scored his second of the game, again from the penalty spot. Their advantage was short-lived, however, as Johor Darul Ta’zim responded just three minutes later to make it 2-2.
The Malaysian side then went in front in the 86th minute with a composed finish, but Alonso’s team responded almost immediately.
Cristian Glauder inadvertently turned the ball into his own net within a minute, bringing Chelsea level once again and ensuring the game ended 3-3.
The friendly was then scheduled to be decided by a penalty shootout, but those plans were abandoned after tempers boiled over on the pitch.
