Despite the "devastation" of losing a key ally on the pitch, James is looking forward to the future under Alonso. The appointment of such a high-profile figure has clearly energised the dressing room. James, who grew up watching Alonso dominate midfields across Europe, is eager to soak up the knowledge of a man who won almost every major trophy available during his playing days.
The England international confirmed he has already held phone conversations with the former Madrid and Bayern Munich midfielder. For the Chelsea captain, the prospect of learning from one of the modern era’s most tactical minds provides a silver lining during a period of transition. "Everyone I've spoken to about him (Alonso) says he's an amazing manager, more known from his playing career," James said. "He had an amazing career and I'm excited to work with him."