Xabi Alonso was stopped on the street by a Spanish reporter on Wednesday and the new Chelsea manager was asked about his decision to take the job at Stamford Bridge
10:54, 21 May 2026
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso
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Newly-appointed Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso(Image: Justin Setterfield - UEFA)
Xabi Alonso was stopped on the street in Madrid on Wednesday and asked about his thoughts on becoming the new Chelsea manager.
It was announced on Sunday morning that the Spaniard had signed a four-year contract with the Blues and will begin his role at Stamford Bridge on July 1. Alonso has been given the title of 'manager', rather than 'head coach' - representing a shift in power within BlueCo's hierarchy.
Alonso will be given more say when it comes to transfer business, sources say, as well as in other operations within the club. It is expected to be a busy summer transfer window for Chelsea, with BlueCo looking to provide Alonso with multiple 'ready-made' players in time for his debut season in west London.
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However, three key players in Joao Pedro, Marc Cucurella and Enzo Fernandez continue to be linked with moves away this summer. Even if Chelsea miss out on Champions League qualification on the final day of the Premier League season - there is still an outside shot for the Blues - sources close to the club continue to insist they will not be forced into selling their most valuable players.
The rumours, though, refuse to go away. Alonso was asked about the possibility of losing the aforementioned trio, as well as a few other things. In a brief interview with El Chiringuito TV, Alonso was asked a total of eight questions by the reporter. While he clearly didn't want to get into too much detail, given he has not officially started the role as Chelsea boss just yet, the Spaniard did stop and speak to the journalist.
Here is every word from the exchange:
Hi Xabi, how are you?
Fine, fine, everything's fine.
We see you in Madrid, near your home...
Yes.
I imagine you're already laying the groundwork for next season at Chelsea...
Yes, that's right. We need to get to work.
How are you? First of all, congratulations.
I'm happy.
The opportunity came about quickly, didn't it?
Yes, it did some about quickly. And it's a very good opportunity.
How did the Chelsea thing come about? Tell us a bit about it...
I've always been open. And it's a beautiful project.
They've got players that half of Europe wants: Joao Pedro, who seems to have Barca after him. I imagine you don't want to let these players go. Enzo Fernandez, Marc Cucurella...
Well, this is football. We'll put together a good team.
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And a few words about Real Madrid?
No, I can't tell you anything. See you later.