The news following the FA Cup final defeat for Chelsea was that an agreement had been reached for Xabi Alonso to become the club’s new manager, something the Spaniard seemingly confirmed himself first.
The Blues acted quickly after defeat to Manchester City at Wembley in an attempt to strike at a sensitive time for supporters, many of which will have been gutted their season is set to end without silverware.
Joe Cole questioned BlueCo’s intentions behind the news getting out, believing it was a move to bolster their own PR on a day where more supporters protested the ownership.
Xabi Alonso’s first words as Chelsea manager!
What are you expecting from Alonso’s first season in charge?
Xabi Alonso confirmed move to Chelsea before club announcement
Chelsea have now announced that Alonso will be in charge from the start of next season, a decision which has been well received by the playing staff.
Before the club’s official announcement though, Alonso took to his own X page to post a story stating that he was about to become their new manager.
Real Madrid v Atletico Madrid: Spanish Super Cup
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The now-deleted post was picked up by a number of journalists, including Henry Winter, who stated: “Good luck to Xabi Alonso at Chelsea. He’ll bring authority and belief.”
Alonso stated he is excited to work at Stamford Bridge, reminding everyone that the Blues are one of the biggest clubs in world football.
Many supporters believe the Blues have hired the best possible manager who was available this summer, with some doubts over the ability of Andoni Iraola and Marco Silva to step up to the level required.
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Xabi Alonso wants to keep Enzo Fernandez and Marc Cucurella
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Alonso’s stance on current Chelsea squad
Alonso believes there are title-winning foundations in the Chelsea squad, however it will all depend on some of the transfer moves the club makes this summer.
The Spaniard has reportedly vetoed any thoughts on selling Joao Pedro, with Barcelona leading the charge to sign him this summer.
In terms of players coming in, Alonso wants two new centre-backs to add depth to his squad, opening up the opportunity to regularly play in a back three.
Chelsea have used this system in their last two games, and looked far stronger than the preceding weeks where they continued to lose in the Premier League.
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