Xabi Alonso has officially started work as Chelsea manager ahead of the new Premier League season.
The Spaniard was confirmed as the incoming Blues’ boss in May after signing a four-year contract at Stamford Bridge.
And on Thursday, he was seen arriving at the club’s Cobham training ground for the first time as the Chelsea stars not involved at the World Cup reported for pre-season.
Alonso smiled as he was snapped by the club’s media team walking out of a private vehicle and into the first team building, while he also posed with Chelsea’s new kit.
However, his first day was slightly marred when quotes from Sunderland and Switzerland star Granit Xhaka began to circulate.
Xhaka was a top target for Alonso after the pair worked together at Bayer Leverkusen, with Chelsea keen to add experience to their youthful group ahead of the new campaign.
Xabi Alonso has officially started work as Chelsea boss after his appointment back in May
Alonso was all smiles as he arrived at the club’s Cobham training base on Thursday morning
They had an £8million bid rejected last month, with Sunderland labelling the offer as ‘insulting’ before news broke that the 33-year-old was set to stay with the Black Cats this summer.
And, when pressed on the saga after Switzerland beat Colombia on penalties in the World Cup quarter-final on Tuesday, Xhaka broke his silence and confirmed the reports.
‘Sunderland has been my home since day one,’ he said. ‘We are all very happy.
‘I have decided to stay where I am; the most important thing is family. I am ready to make history with them.’
Daily Mail Sport understands that though the midfielder was attracted by the prospect of reuniting with Xabi Alonso, he decided to reaffirm his commitment to Sunderland following discussions with the club.
The opportunity to lead them in European competition, together with the club’s long-term ambition and trajectory, were decisive factors in his decision.
Xhaka’s strong rapport with Sunderland fans and his connection with the club have also played an important role in his desire to continue his journey at the Stadium of Light.
The Wearside club’s stance has remained unchanged throughout Chelsea’s pursuit: that the Swiss international has never been available for transfer, at any price.
On the same day, quotes circulated from top Chelsea target Granit Xhaka reaffirming his commitment to Sunderland
Meanwhile, speaking after his appointment last month, Alonso opened up on his excitement at the challenge ahead.
‘Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in world football and it fills me with immense pride to become manager of this great club,’ he said.
‘From my conversations with the ownership group and sporting leadership, it is clear we share the same ambition.
‘We want to build a team capable of competing consistently at the highest level and fighting for trophies.
‘There is great talent in the squad and huge potential at this football club and it will be my great honour to lead it. Now the focus is on hard work, building the right culture and winning trophies.’
