The Chelsea squad were visibly gutted following defeat in the FA Cup final to Manchester City, but were reportedly very excited at the news that Xabi Alonso was set to take over the first team managerial duties.
The Blues fell short at Wembley despite a spirited performance which was described as ‘excellent’ by numerous pundits after the game.
Cole Palmer was noticeably frustrated after the game, likely not enjoying the defensive responsibilities his role required under Calum McFarlane.
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Chelsea players excited by Xabi Alonso hiring
He will be one of the players the incoming manager is tasked with getting fully on board, with a number of their top stars being linked with a move away from the club.
Those reports could die down after a popular managerial hiring. According to The Telegraph, the Chelsea squad responded with excitement after learning that Alonso is coming to West London.
Chelsea v Manchester City - Emirates FA Cup Final
Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images
The report goes on to say that the Spaniard is not going to be handed full control of proceedings, although it is expected he will be more involved in decision making than those who came before him.
The fact Alonso has been made manager rather than first team coach suggests he will have more say over areas like transfers and tactics, something which Enzo Maresca publicly complained about when he was in charge.
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Xabi Alonso wants to keep Enzo Fernandez and Marc Cucurella
Photo by Alvaro Medranda/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images
Alonso’s early demands to Chelsea
During talks with the club, the former Real Madrid boss has made a number of points clear to the Blues, and the fact he has accepted taking over suggests he has been given assurances over them.
Alonso wants Chelsea to keep Enzo Fernandez and Marc Cucurella, despite strong reports linking the duo to moves to Spain over the summer.
The incoming manager wants two new centre-backs as well, likely to complement Levi Colwill, who Chelsea fans have high hopes for going into next season.
The England international gave everyone a timely reminder of his quality in just his second start of the season in the FA Cup final, in front of his national team manager, Thomas Tuchel.
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