Xabi Alonso has officially taken charge of Chelsea for the first time during their pre-season tour, leading the team in their match against Western Sydney Wanderers in Australia. The former Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid manager begins his tenure with the west London club, marking the start of a new era for the team (standard.co.uk).
Alonso, who joined Chelsea as head coach in June, is set to oversee the Blues’ pre-season campaign, which includes games in Australia. The match against Western Sydney Wanderers is the first test of his leadership, with the team having traveled halfway around the world for the tour. The game will provide an opportunity for Alonso to assess his squad and set the tone for the upcoming season (thesun.co.uk).
During his time in Australia, Alonso has also expressed admiration for Sydney-born teenager Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli, highlighting the potential of young talent within the team. Additionally, he has praised the potential of the partnership between England midfielder Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer, two key players in Chelsea’s midfield. Rogers, signed from Aston Villa for a record fee, is expected to play a central role under Alonso’s guidance (smh.com.au).
