Xabi Alonso has the qualities to succeed at Chelsea, according to former manager Rafael Benitez.
Rafael Benitez believes Xabi Alonso’s intelligence and tactical understanding will overcome the pressure of Stamford Bridge.
“I think Xabi is really clever,” Benitez told Sky Sports.
The appointment comes after Chelsea’s disappointing 2025/26 campaign, in which the West London club finished 10th in the Premier League and missed out on European football. Alonso has officially begun work as Chelsea’s new manager this week after being appointed on a four-year contract.
The Spaniard inherits a side looking to bounce back from a domestic season marked by underperformance. Benitez, who managed Alonso during their successful spell together at Liverpool, is convinced his former charge possesses the tactical intelligence to thrive in west London.
“He did really well with Bayer Leverkusen, and that was a surprise because he was coming from Real Sociedad B. To achieve what he did at Leverkusen was fantastic,” Benitez told Sky Sports.
The experienced Spanish coach highlighted Alonso’s trilateral league experience as a rare advantage in Chelsea appointments. Benitez pointed to his time in La Liga, the Bundesliga, and the Premier League itself.
“He knows the Premier League, and that is an advantage,” Benitez said. Few managers arrive at Chelsea already versed in English football’s demands. “Chelsea is not easy,” Benitez added, “but I think he can do well.”
Benitez’s endorsement carries weight given the relationship the pair built during one of Liverpool’s most successful period under the Spaniard. Alonso established himself as one of Europe’s finest midfielders after arriving at Anfield in 2004, helping the Reds win the UEFA Champions League in his debut season before adding the FA Cup the following year.
Alonso has been impressive as a manager
Alonso’s managerial career has followed a remarkable arc. After guiding Bayer Leverkusen to a historic Bundesliga title, he took charge of Real Madrid before switching to Chelsea this summer. Speaking during his first week in charge, Alonso stressed that creating the right culture would be the foundation for any future success.
The 44-year-old said he would focus on aligning the club behind a shared vision. Success, he added, depends on good work, smart decisions, and a strong team environment. He also expressed confidence that Chelsea could achieve great things in the coming years if everyone remained united behind the project.
Also Read: Five players who can enjoy Chelsea resurgence under Xabi Alonso
With no European commitments this season, Alonso has time to build before the new Premier League season. His task: to translate Benitez’s confidence into a league position that justifies Chelsea’s investment in the appointment.