Xabi Alonso said Chelsea's return to the Champions League and challenge for the Premier League will require patience, planning and an integrated project rather than quick fixes. In a lengthy interview with Jamie Carragher, his former Liverpool team-mate and now an analyst at Sky Sports, Alonso also explained why he chose Chelsea and discussed the board's role in building the project.
Building over several years
Alonso said building a side capable of competing at the highest level cannot happen in a single season.
He said it takes several years of work and the right decisions, with the first season important in laying the foundations for the future.
Alonso said Chelsea's ambition is to reclaim their place among Europe's elite, but competing for the Premier League and returning to the Champions League cannot be achieved overnight.
Only seven matches had been played at the time he spoke.
Decision-making and coordination
Alonso said a coach should form part of the decision-making process and that communication between the owners, the sporting director and the technical staff matters enormously.
He said constant coordination between Sam Jewell, Paul Winstanley, Joe Shields and the team is vital at Chelsea.
Alonso also said his bond with Simon Rolfes at Bayer Leverkusen rested on close daily contact, including sharing the same office.
Premier League memories
Alonso recalled a match against Bolton and a tackle from Gary Speed as an example of the harshness of Premier League competition.
He also recalled a 3-0 win over Norwich as a performance that helped him win trust.