Alonso 'privileged' to lead Chelsea in 'most competitive league in the world'

Xabi Alonso believes the Premier League is "the most competitive league in the world" as he prepares to lead Chelsea into the 2026-27 season.

The 44-year-old was named Chelsea manager at the end of last season, which saw interim boss Calum McFarlane take charge of their run-in following Liam Rosenior's sacking.

Alonso, meanwhile, parted ways with Real Madrid back in January, despite winning 24 of his 34 games in charge of the LaLiga giants (D4 L6).

Nevertheless, the Spaniard is excited to lead his side, which has been bolstered by the arrivals of Marco Palestra and Geovany Quenda, into the Premier League.

"Of course the Premier League is the most competitive league in the world right now," said Alonso.

"It is a challenge to come here, but really excited about accepting it, improving and learning together, and the history of Chelsea is there.

"Because of their success, because of so many great players, so many great managers. I see some pictures of them, some of these guys.

"I feel honoured, privileged and ready for the work.

"We need to have hunger. We need to have the passion for the game. We need to want to improve. The Premier League is such a competitive competition and, for that, we need to prepare ourselves.

"We need to be really determined in details, really strong on our basics - how we want to play. We will have time for that. But those are the most important pillars in our game."

Chelsea take on the likes of Tottenham, AC Milan and Juventus in pre-season before starting their Premier League campaign on August 24.

Their first game comes away to local rivals Fulham, who are now coached by Alvaro Arbeloa, Alonso's successor at Madrid.