Why I joined Chelsea ahead of other clubs –Alonso
Xabi Alonso has opened up on the reasons behind his decision to join Chelsea ahead of other top clubs ahead of the 2026-27 Premier League season.
Alonso was appointed as Chelsea’s new coach in May but he resumed duties at Stamford Bridge on Thursday alongside the players to begin preparations for the new season.
The former Real Madrid coach was unveiled shortly after signing a four-year deal to become the sixth permanent manager since the BlueCo ownership took over the reigns in 2022.
After a disappointing season, Alonso has been tasked with the rebuilding job at Stamford Bridge and he has expressed his delight at the opportunity to join the club.
He said: “I chose Chelsea ahead of other teams because I’ve seen this team compete on the biggest stage. With the right guidance, we will do it again.
The way they have, not so long ago, played and competed at the highest level gave me assurance that the potential of the team was there, because of the quality of the players and the quality of the way they have played.
“The potential of the team and squad made me really excited, to find a squad to work with, create a football idea, bring excitement to the stadium and connect with the fans.
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“It feels great, but it’s a big honour. To be part of this great club that is one of the best in the world with great success in the last decades, and it’s a big privilege to be a part, and now it’s looking forward to the challenge.”
Alonso promised the supporters that better days are ahead of the team next season.
He concluded: “The message is we want to share that belief that good things will come if we are together and we create this strength, it has to come from us to bring the energy, but together, we can achieve great things in the coming years.
“I’m sure that with the commitment of everyone, with hard work that’s a must and with the quality of the decisions we have to take, we will be there to enjoy a very good season.”
Chelsea finished 10th in the Premier League last to miss out on European football qualification after a disastrous campaign.
Meanwhile, the likes of Levi Colwill, Cole Palmer, João Pedro, Josh Acheampong, Jamie Gittens, Wesley Fofana, Romeo Lavia, Dario Essugo, and Emmanuel Emegha resumed for pre-season training at Stamford Bridge on Thursday.
