Chelsea fans are largely optimistic about their chances with Xabi Alonso in charge for next season, however former striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has warned the club to not stand in his way when he gets to work.
Chelsea are hoping for better things after their 2025/26 season saw them finish 10th in the Premier League, and without silverware.
Alonso will have a number of issues to solve upon his arrival, including the status of the likes of Joao Pedro and Enzo Fernandez upon outside interest in the duo.
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Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink sends Chelsea warning over Xabi Alonso
The Chelsea squad have been crying out for consistency after having Enzo Maresca, Liam Rosenior and two interim stints in charge for Calum McFarlane in a single season.
Hasselbaink has warned the club to allow Alonso to have control over football decisions and not allow player power to take over again at Stamford Bridge.
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He told Flashscore: “They’ve said they want to look at their structure and make some changes, including bringing in some experienced players. The new manager has to be able to manage, to really be the boss when it comes to football decisions. It’s not good if the players know people at the top can override the manager’s decisions.
“That just leads to a lack of respect and poor mentality. Right now, you see Chelsea being very good one game, then lacking energy the next. That points to a bigger issue internally. Leadership has to start from the top.”
Chelsea players were accused of deliberately ignoring instructions from Rosenior towards the end of his time in charge, and the same under Alonso would have devastating consequences.
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A 10th place finish and no silverware for the Blues!
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Alonso prepared to get involved with transfers this summer
In discussions before even taking the job, Alonso made Chelsea aware of a number of signings he would like the club to make.
Alonso wants two new centre-backs to join the Blues this summer, potentially open up the chance for him to operate regularly with a back three.
The new manager is also prepared to get involved to sign Lewis Hall, if the former Chelsea academy star can be convinced to return.
The Spaniard wants to keep Marc Cucurella, but his future is up in the air following interest from Spain in his services.
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