Xabi Alonso has asked for patience as his new coaching era at the helm of Chelsea kicks off in Sydney this week. As he was for most of his playing career, Xabi Alonso is in no rush. The former Liverpool midfielder became an icon for his metronomic style of play, his calm and considered passes, and his patient reading of space, time, and angles.

He told reporters that the footballing world has changed since he left in 2009. "We've seen the progression and the development of the league, the teams, the clubs, the coaches, and the players," he said. He praised the energy of the squad, noting that they are working hard and that the young academy players are impressive.

One of those "great qualities" is Morgan Rogers, who became the most expensive British player in history after signing for Chelsea earlier this month for a record‑breaking £117 million. The first half of Alonso's short media appearance was about the English forward, who has not joined the team for their Australia tour.

Alonso wants to start by building chemistry and understanding how the pieces fit together before the Premier League kicks off on August 22.