Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso was pleased with the reception at Stamford Bridge.
This match marked his first home game at the helm of the Blues, and the team secured a confident 3-1 victory over his former club, Real Sociedad.
“It was a very good last preparation game,” Alonso stated in an interview on the club's official website.
“For some players, it was their first and last. We had some good moments, but also areas to improve. At this stage, it’s normal for some players,” the manager noted.
“It was fantastic to have the whole team together. Some of them managed to play 60 minutes just three days later. This was our final test. Now we have an entire week to prepare for Fulham, and the atmosphere in the stadium was great,” he added.
“It was very emotional to feel at home for the first time. The fans gave the team and the new coaching staff, including myself, a wonderful reception, which has left me thrilled,” the boss shared.
“We want to build strong connections and earn that support. We aim to show them good football, so they can energise us and we can unite. A good atmosphere here at the stadium will be a massive boost for the team,” Alonso concluded.
