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Xabi Alonso has spoken candidly about his choice to take the Chelsea managerial role, explaining that his move to Stamford Bridge instead of returning sentimentally to Liverpool was largely influenced by timing. The Spaniard, who built a legendary reputation during his playing days at Anfield, was officially presented as Chelsea’s new manager after departing Real Madrid. He had previously guided the Spanish giants through a challenging season before leaving prior to its conclusion, following an impressive tenure with Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga.

A decision based on timing

The new Chelsea boss addressed inevitable questions about his former club, clarifying that his move to West London rather than Merseyside was driven by circumstance. Despite his emotional connection to Liverpool—where he famously lifted the Champions League trophy in 2005—the 44-year-old stressed that the opportunity at Stamford Bridge arrived at the right time for his professional development.

“Well, it is about timings,” Alonso told BBC Sport during his first day at the stadium. “I am here today on my first day at Stamford Bridge, talking to you. I am looking forward to this challenge, a big challenge, and Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs and I am looking forward to having success here.”

Reports suggest that there was no communication with Liverpool in the weeks leading up to his appointment, even though the Reds later dismissed Arne Slot following a difficult second season in charge.

Managerial authority and structure at Chelsea

Unlike his recent predecessors Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior, who were appointed as head coaches, Alonso has been given the more traditional title of manager. While he will continue to collaborate with Chelsea’s sporting directors regarding transfers and recruitment, the shift in title indicates a subtle change in the club’s hierarchy.

Alonso appears comfortable with this setup, explaining: “What I like is that we work together and we are all part of the decisions we take, we all feel responsible for that. The ultimate goal is clear and, for me, it is the way it should be. We are confident that we are doing the right things in the right way.”

He further added: “The potential is there. I think there is a strong base and a good team already there. We need to reinforce it in the right way and take good decisions to do that. The feeling is that we are aligned with the sporting directors. The ultimate goal is to have a good team, build the right squad and we are in that moment.”

Taking on the Premier League challenge

Alonso is fully aware of the pressure that comes with the Chelsea job, becoming the club’s sixth permanent manager in just four years under the current ownership. Nevertheless, the former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen coach is embracing the demands of the Premier League, acknowledging that the competition has evolved significantly since his playing days.

“The Premier League is the most competitive league in the world right now,” he said. “It’s a challenge to come here, to come back to the league, in my managerial career but one I’m really excited about accepting and improving and learning together. We want to create excitement, to have that bond with the supporters and to win games and be successful.”

Unlocking the potential of Cole Palmer

After Chelsea’s disappointing 10th-place finish in the Premier League last season, which saw them miss out on European competition, Alonso faces a major rebuilding project. Among the players he singled out for praise was Cole Palmer, who returned to pre-season training with renewed motivation.

“So far we have been together for a few days and he has come in with a positive mindset and positive spirit. He wants to enjoy playing football,” Alonso said. “He is a special player, a different class with a different quality, and if we help him by building a team around him that allows his talent to shine, we will be closer to success. I am sure of that.”

The new manager also reaffirmed his commitment to keeping Enzo Fernandez at the club, dismissing speculation about the midfielder’s potential departure.