Former Chelsea midfeilder Michael Essien believes Xabi Alonso has to win a trophy next season in order to keep the club’s ownership happy.
Chelsea confirmed the appointment of Alonso earlier this month, and the Spaniard has signed a four year contract at Stamford Bridge.
Unlike Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior, Alonso has been given the title of manger, which suggests he may have more control at the club.
The appointment of Alonso is seen as a real coup for Chelsea, with the players reportedly excited to work under the 44-year-old.
Reece James has labelled Alonso as an amazing manager, whilst Trevoh Chalobah has said he can’t wait to work under the former Real Madrid boss.
John Terry has also given the appointment his seal of approval, but Alonso has got a huge job on his hands after another disappointing season.
The Blues lost the FA Cup final, finished a lowly tenth, and failed to qualify for any form of European football next season.
Alonso will be under pressure to get Chelsea back into the Champions League and fighting at the top end of the table, and Essien believes he needs to win a trophy next season.
“When you look back at what he’s done at Leverkusen, things didn’t work out at Madrid, but I think it’s a good appointment. We have to give him the support and hopefully he can change things,” he told talkSPORT.
“Chelsea are expected to win things, so it’s been a disappointing season; these things happen, but everyone is expecting them to win a trophy next season.
Asked what Alonso needs to do to keep BlueCo happy, he said:
“It’ll be down to how they play, when they start winning, everyone will say they can win a trophy – but this is Chelsea, they have to win a trophy.”
