While this season has seen Chelsea fall short of their usual high standards, the ability to land one of world football's most coveted managers serves as a reminder of the club's status. McFarlane believes the quality within the current ranks was a significant draw for the incoming coach, who will be tasked with transforming potential into consistent results.
“Really exciting news,” McFarlane said of Alonso’s appointment. “[He is] very talented, with a massive pedigree. Yeah, really excited for the club. We're all looking forward to working with them. It doesn't surprise me. It's a massive club. I think we've got really exciting players coming to play here. Even though it's a disappointing season, they are showing at times this year the kind of quality that we have. So yeah, it's a massive club, and it will always attract top players and top managers.”