Xabi Alonso has been appointed as Chelsea‘s sixth permanent manager in four years under the ownership of BlueCo, led by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital. His predecessors, Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior, held the title of head coach, a distinction that insiders suggest is significant in Alonso’s new role as manager.
Alonso will collaborate with the five-strong sporting director team on player recruitment. When asked about the importance of his managerial title in granting him authority, Alonso stated that he values working together and sharing responsibility for decisions. He emphasised that the ultimate goal for the club is clear.
Squad Reinforcement and Player Focus
Alonso expressed confidence in the current direction, noting that there is a strong base and a good team already in place. He believes the squad needs reinforcement in the right way, through good decisions, and feels aligned with the sporting directors on this objective. The ultimate aim is to build the right squad.
Chelsea finished 10th in the Premier League last season after a loss at Sunderland on the final day, which meant they missed out on European qualification. This outcome has implications for the club’s efforts to adjust the squad size. Notable players such as Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro were not called up for the World Cup.
Alonso has benefited from having more time with the majority of his squad during pre-season. He specifically mentioned Palmer, who returned with a positive mindset after being overlooked for the England squad. Alonso described Palmer as a special player with unique quality, suggesting that building a team around him to allow his talent to shine will bring the club closer to success.
During his unveiling, Alonso was surrounded by images of former managers José Mourinho and Antonio Conte holding Premier League trophies, highlighting the club’s expectations. Alonso’s appointment as manager, rather than head coach, suggests that concessions were made to secure his services. He confirmed having proper talks before taking on the role and is working with sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart, with whom he says he is aligned on goals and decisions.
Challenges and Optimism for the Season
The club’s recent history includes a turbulent period, with previous managers like Maresca stepping down mid-season. Last season also saw the team accumulate 11 red cards, an unwanted club record, and face criticism for its youth, lack of leaders, and indiscipline. Alonso aims to build a team with the right mentality, hunger, and standards.
The reshaping of the squad is already underway. Marc Cucurella moved to Real Madrid, Andrey Santos joined Manchester United, and Tyrique George signed for Everton. Alejandro Garnacho is also expected to depart. Chelsea has brought in new talent, including Marco Palestra from Atalanta and Geovany Quenda from Sporting.
Alonso has not yet worked with his full squad due to several players being at the World Cup, but he believes the group requires tweaks rather than a major overhaul. He expressed optimism, stating that he does not think the team is far from being a good one, capable of competing and winning many games. He believes that by changing a few things, updating, and reinforcing some positions, the team can have a good season.
Regarding midfielder Enzo Fernández, who was the subject of intense speculation, Alonso confirmed that the Argentinian wants to stay and expects him to return to training after the World Cup.
Alonso is the sixth permanent manager at Stamford Bridge in four years.
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Source: bbc.co.uk
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As News-GB's Sports Reporter, Megan Sinclair reports on tennis, cricket and athletics for readers across the country. She built her name interviewing rising British talent. She holds a degree in Sport and Media from the University of Edinburgh and completed an NCTJ diploma. Megan lives in Edinburgh, where she plays club tennis and follows track athletics. “Give the athletes room and the story tells itself.”