Xabi Alonso: Time Will Tell If We Build a Championship Team, But the Club Has Huge Potential

Xabi Alonso is optimistic about Chelsea's first season under his leadership. The Spaniard held his inaugural press conference today as the London club's manager, expressing his enthusiasm to work in what he considers the strongest league in the world. He believes crucial decisions must be made and a winning mentality fostered to unlock the team's significant potential.

"I want to enjoy this. I want to be part of this club, to work alongside the sporting director, the players, and the staff. This is a club with immense potential, and we need to make important, correct decisions. There's already a very solid foundation, and we must build upon it to cultivate the mentality required to be competitive on the pitch.

Certainly, one of our goals is to return to European competition, but to achieve that, we need to get many things right. Part of the process is defining how we want to play and approach every match. That's my job.

Will I be given the necessary time to build a championship-winning team? Time will tell, but we have the ambition to win many games. We need to make important decisions, establish strong principles, and cultivate a robust mentality and culture within the club. Time will show; I won't predict what will happen in May, as it's too early for that. I am optimistic and believe we will have a great season. The squad is good, and it's clear where we want to strengthen. We are working very cohesively, and that's the right approach.

The Premier League is currently the most competitive league in the world. It's a challenge to come here. I'm truly excited to embrace it, to improve, and to learn together. Chelsea has achieved so much success thanks to many great players and managers. I feel truly privileged."

When asked whether he would play with a back four or a back five, the Spaniard stated: "I have a few things in mind; that's my job. We want to be brave, to play good football, but beyond that, we need to have a strong mentality. We must know what to do at every moment; it will be a process, but we want to show that we are ready."

Quizzed about a conversation with Enzo Fernandez regarding the midfielder's future, Alonso replied: "Yes, but that will remain confidential. I want him to stay. There's interest in Garnacho from another club, but let's see how things develop."