Xabi Alonso tells players his clear non-negotiable in first Chelsea interview

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Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso has told his players that he wants to create a culture of hard work at Stamford Bridge. Speaking in his first interview with the club since being appointed, the Spaniard set out the stall for his tenure.

Alonso was confirmed as Chelsea boss in May, agreeing a four-year deal in west London. The ex-Liverpool midfielder started work on July 1, succeeding Liam Rosenior after Calum McFarlane spent the final month of the season in charge.

Thursday saw pre-season begin with the likes of Joao Pedro, Estevao Willian and Wesley Fofana arrive to work under their new boss.

“You can’t hold back anything, everything is for the team," he said . " Hard work is a must”

“We need to create that culture, it starts here in a daily process at Cobham”

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The former Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid coach also revealed that the potential of the squad was a motivating factor in joining.

“The potential of the team and squad made me really excited, to find a squad to work with, create a football idea, bring excitement to the stadium and connect with the fans," he said.

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