Chelsea interim head coach Calum McFarlane has revealed the squad is excited by the club’s decision to appoint Xabi Alonso as their new manager.
Alonso’s arrival was confirmed after Chelsea’s 1-0 defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup final at Wembley. The former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen boss has agreed a four-year contract, although he will not officially take charge until July.
McFarlane, who is preparing the team for Tuesday’s London derby against Tottenham, said he has already had brief contact with Alonso.
“I haven’t [spoken with him] yet, but he sent me a text message on Sunday,” McFarlane said. “I’ll keep that private, but mainly just around the final. I’ve had a brief conversation with him via text message.”
Despite the disappointment of losing the FA Cup final, Alonso’s appointment has brought a fresh sense of optimism to Stamford Bridge. Chelsea have endured a difficult and inconsistent campaign, but the squad are now looking forward to working with one of Europe’s most highly rated coaches.
Asked about the players’ reaction, McFarlane said: “Everyone is excited. He’s a great coach, won major trophies, and had a great playing career. He will have lots of respect from everyone. We’re very excited.”
Alonso arrives with a strong reputation from both his playing and coaching careers. His tactical identity, experience at elite clubs and ability to develop players are expected to be major assets for a Chelsea squad still filled with young talent.
McFarlane also believes Chelsea’s ability to attract Alonso proves the club remains one of the biggest names in world football, despite a frustrating season.
“Really exciting news,” he said. “[He is] very talented, with a massive pedigree. Yeah, really excited for the club. We’re all looking forward to working with them.
“It doesn’t surprise me. It’s a massive club. I think we’ve got really exciting players coming to play here. Even though it’s a disappointing season, they are showing at times this year the kind of quality that we have. So yeah, it’s a massive club, and it will always attract top players and top managers.”
For Chelsea, Alonso’s appointment marks the start of another major reset. The immediate focus remains on finishing the season strongly, but attention is already turning to what the Spaniard can build when he officially begins work in July.
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