Xabi Alonso was unveiled as Chelsea's new manager in the Drake Suite at Stamford Bridge, where framed photographs of José Mourinho and Antonio Conte holding Premier League trophies served as a reminder of the club's expectations. Alonso, a decorated midfielder who won two European Championships and a World Cup with Spain, has signed a four-year contract and becomes the club's sixth permanent manager in four turbulent years since the Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital takeover.
Alonso's Optimism and Talks with the Club
Alonso expressed optimism about his tenure, stating, 'I don't think that we need to change everything. It's about changing a few things and that can work.' He acknowledged that 'proper talks' were needed before taking the role, and the fact he was given the title of 'manager' rather than 'head coach' suggests concessions were made. He is working with sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart, claiming they are 'aligned' on decisions and goals.
Chelsea finished 10th in the Premier League last season and face at least a year without European football. The aftermath of last season saw Maresca step down midway through the campaign, and the team plummeted from Champions League qualification. The squad has been criticized for its youth, lack of leaders, and chronic indiscipline, including a record 11 red cards in the season.
Player Situations and Squad Reshaping
Midfielder Enzo Fernández, who cost £106m, wants to leave, but Alonso said the Argentine wants to stay after speaking with him. Cole Palmer, omitted from England's World Cup squad due to his decline, has trained with Alonso and is 'desperate to stay fit.' Alonso called Palmer 'special' and a potential key player.
The squad is being reshaped: Marc Cucurella joined Real Madrid for £52m, Andrey Santos moved to Manchester United for £50m, Tyrique George signed for Everton for £18m, and Alejandro Garnacho is expected to leave after arriving for £50m less than a year ago. New signings include Marco Palestra from Atalanta for £47m and Geovany Quenda from Sporting for £44m.
Lessons from Previous Managers
Previous incumbents have struggled: Mauricio Pochettino lasted one season, Graham Potter did not finish one, and Liam Rosenior signed a six-year contract but was gone after 106 days. Alonso remains undeterred, saying, 'When we started talking, it was a good opportunity to come. I don't think we are that far to creating a good team.' He believes the group needs tweaks, not a major overhaul, and is 'optimistic and really believe it.'
Only time will tell if Alonso's framed photo will one day hang in the Drake Suite or if he becomes another victim of Chelsea's coaching carousel.
