Former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez believes Xabi Alonso possesses all the qualities needed to thrive as Chelsea’s new head coach, insisting the Spaniard’s intelligence and deep understanding of English football make him well-equipped for one of the Premier League’s toughest jobs.
Alonso officially began a new chapter in his coaching career after taking charge at Stamford Bridge last month following an impressive spell with Bayer Leverkusen.
Although the challenge awaiting him in west London is significant, Benitez is convinced his former midfield general has both the personality and tactical expertise to succeed.
Having worked closely with Alonso during Liverpool’s golden era, Benitez knows better than most the qualities that made the Spaniard one of Europe’s finest midfielders.
The pair famously lifted the UEFA Champions League together in Istanbul in 2005, and the veteran coach believes those same footballing instincts have translated seamlessly into management.
Reflecting on Alonso’s rise through the coaching ranks, Benitez praised the remarkable progress the Spaniard has made in a relatively short period.
“I think Xabi is really clever,” Benitez told Sky Sports News reporter Tim Thornton.
The former Liverpool boss highlighted Alonso’s achievements in Germany, where he transformed Bayer Leverkusen into one of Europe’s most admired teams.
“He did really well with Leverkusen – and that was a surprise, because he was coming from Real Sociedad B.”
Alonso’s appointment at Leverkusen initially raised eyebrows because of his limited senior managerial experience.
However, he quickly silenced critics by implementing an attractive, possession-based style of football while guiding the club to multiple trophies, including a historic Bundesliga triumph.
Benitez believes that success demonstrated Alonso’s ability to adapt quickly to elite-level management.
“To do what he did at Leverkusen was fantastic. Then going to Real Madrid – we know from experience that this is quite complicated – but at the same time he knows the league, he knows the players.”
Although Alonso’s managerial journey has now brought him to Chelsea, Benitez feels his previous experiences as both a player and coach have prepared him perfectly for the demands of English football.
The Spaniard enjoyed five successful seasons at Liverpool between 2004 and 2009, becoming one of the Premier League’s most respected midfielders before moving to Real Madrid and later Bayern Munich.
That experience, according to Benitez, gives him an important advantage over many foreign coaches arriving in England.
“He knows everything around the Premier League. He’s clever – I think he is a good coach. Chelsea is not easy, but I think he can do well.”
Chelsea’s expectations remain as demanding as ever, with supporters eager to see the club return to competing consistently for major honours both domestically and in Europe.
Alonso inherits a talented squad but also the pressure that accompanies managing one of England’s biggest clubs.
His tactical flexibility, calm leadership and reputation for developing young players could prove vital as Chelsea seek stability after several seasons of managerial changes.
For Benitez, however, the biggest reason for optimism is Alonso himself. The former Reds manager believes his intelligence, football knowledge and understanding of the Premier League provide the ideal foundation for success.
As Chelsea prepare for the new campaign, Alonso will be determined to justify that confidence and establish himself among the Premier League’s elite managers, adding another successful chapter to an already distinguished football career.
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