McFarlane: No surprise Chelsea were able to attract Alonso

Calum McFarlane insists it should not be a surprise that Chelsea have attracted Xabi Alonso.

The former Liverpool manager will take over as manager at Stamford Bridge in July.

Alonso left Real Madrid in January after less than eight months in charge at the Bernabeu.

Prior to his spell in Spain, he enjoyed a stunning stint in Germany, leading Leverkusen to their first-ever Bundesliga title — secured without losing a single game—as well as the German Cup during the 2023-24 campaign.

He was linked with his former club Liverpool and regarded as one of the most sought-after managers in the game.

And Chelsea have attracted him despite a disappointing, trophyless season and the prospect of no European football next term.

But McFarlane said: “It doesn’t surprise me. It’s a massive club.

“I think we’ve got really exciting players – some of the best players in the world who have shown at times this year, even though it’s been a disappointing season, the quality that we have.

“It’s a massive club and it will always attract top players and top managers.”

McFarlane has been at the helm since the sacking of Liam Rosenior – his second spell as interim head coach.

McFarlane revealed that he has had contact with Alonso via text message,  but says he does not yet know whether he will be part of the Spaniard’s coaching staff.

“I don’t know at this moment in time,” he said.

However, it is understood that McFarlane will be retained along with goalkeeper coach Ben Roberts and set-piece coach Bernardo Cueva.