New Chelsea manager, Xabi Alonso, has said there is good energy around the club as he begins his reign, though he remained reluctant to define what a successful first season would look like, CDA News Nigeria gathered.
Alonso, who officially began the job on July 1 and took charge of his first competitive fixture in Sydney against Western Sydney Wanderers, expressed optimism about the project ahead. According to him, Chelsea are starting the new season with good energy, describing it as important for what lies ahead.
Sports Illustrated
Sports Illustrated
The Spanish tactician faces a difficult task in restoring Chelsea’s fortunes after their disappointing finish outside continental qualification last season. He has already sanctioned a series of preseason signings headlined by Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa, and says he is pleased with the quality on ground.
Sports Illustrated
Alonso said the club wants to build a competitive team with the right balance between quality and mentality, adding that his side would remain tactically flexible rather than forcing a single rigid system on the players.
Sports Illustrated
Alonso, who previously guided Bayer Leverkusen to an unbeaten domestic double before a brief spell at Real Madrid, is known for his short passing philosophy but has promised pragmatism at Stamford Bridge.
Sources close to the club also disclosed that his first message to the playing group centred on “soul, purpose and good energy,” alongside a renewed emphasis on physical conditioning after Chelsea were repeatedly outrun by opponents last season.
Chelsea fans will hope the new manager’s approach translates into results as the club begins another push to return to the top of English football.
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