Former Liverpool player Bolo Zenden has expressed doubts about Xabi Alonso's decision to become Chelsea manager, following the confirmation of his appointment on Sunday. Alonso, who previously managed Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid, has signed a four-year deal at Stamford Bridge, replacing Liam Rosenior.
Zenden, who played alongside Alonso at Liverpool from 2005 to 2007 and later served as assistant coach at Chelsea under Rafa Benitez, warned that Alonso's Liverpool connections could create friction with Chelsea fans. He recalled how Benitez was never fully accepted by supporters due to his history with Liverpool, despite winning the Europa League and finishing third in the Premier League.
Zenden also questioned whether Alonso could handle the egos at Chelsea, noting that at Real Madrid, he faced criticism for struggling with star players. 'How will that be at Chelsea if there are some bigger names on bench and not playing in Europe?' Zenden said. He cautioned that successive failures could harm Alonso's managerial career.
The news comes as Liverpool head coach Arne Slot faces pressure from fans after a season with 19 defeats, with some supporters calling for Alonso as a replacement. However, club sources indicate the hierarchy intends to back Slot, who remains involved in transfer talks.
