After being officially appointed as Chelsea manager, Xabi Alonso said his first words in charge of the team. He said that for him it is a privilege and, at the same time, a responsibility, to lead Chelsea.

"Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in world football and it fills me with immense pride to become manager of this great club. From my conversations with the ownership group and the sporting leadership, it is clear that we share the same ambition. We want to build a team capable of consistently competing at the highest level and fighting for trophies.

"There is great talent in the squad and great potential at this football club and it will be a great honour for me to lead it. Now the focus is on hard work, building the right culture and winning trophies."