Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso uses rugby drills before Arsenal Premier League match

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has introduced rugby-style training drills ahead of this weekend's Premier League match against Arsenal. James Saavundra of Sky Sports observed the use of large, padded tackle bags during the session, an approach reportedly intended to prepare players for the physical intensity associated with Arsenal, particularly during set-piece situations. Former All Black Willie Isa is participating in the training sessions as part of the team's culture coaching staff. The match marks the first time Alonso and Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta will face each other as opposing coaches in the Premier League. Arteta previously used unconventional psychological training methods, such as playing songs over loudspeakers at the training ground before a match at Anfield. While pundit Gary Neville has expressed a positive outlook on the team's season, he noted he does not expect Chelsea to secure a victory in the upcoming fixture.

• 12:30 PMYahoo Sports — (Video): Xabi Alonso’s special rugby training drill is very “Arteta-coded”