EPL: McFarlane sends message to Alonso over Chelsea squad after FA Cup defeat

Chelsea’s caretaker coach, Calum McFarlane has informed the club’s incoming permanent head coach that he will take over a squad filled with ‘quality’ players who have demonstrated their ‘fight and heart.’

Chelsea are said to have reached an agreement with former Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid manager, Xabi Alonso to charge on a permanent basis.

The Blues missed an opportunity to secure some silverware from a disappointing season at Wembley on Saturday, as Antoine Semenyo’s brilliant goal clinched victory for Manchester City in the FA Cup final.

Shortly after the final whistle, it was widely reported that the Blues had come to an agreement with Xabi Alonso to assume the role at Stamford Bridge.

The club has explored several options to succeed Liam Rosenior, who was dismissed last month, with the former Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid manager emerging as the leading candidate this week.

A four-year contract with the Spaniard has now been finalized, and an official announcement is expected soon.

Chelsea endured six consecutive Premier League defeats, marking an unwanted chapter in the club’s history, but ended that streak with a spirited draw against Liverpool last weekend.

There was noticeable improvement in their performance against City, although they were perhaps let down by some inadequate finishing at Wembley.

MacFarlane, who stepped in as interim manager for the second time following Rosenior’s departure, believes that his team’s performance has demonstrated the genuine quality present within the squad.

Having faced accusations of lacking effort under the previous coach, he asserted that the group has likely dispelled doubts regarding their commitment to the cause.

When asked if Chelsea’s new coach would have appreciated what they witnessed today, McFarlane stated in his post-match press conference: “It’s a really talented group, there is lots of quality in that group.

“Their fight and heart have been questioned at times, but based on the last two performances, I don’t think that can be doubted.”