Xabi Alonso hails Chelsea connection after Real Sociedad win

Xabi Alonso described his first experience of Stamford Bridge as Chelsea manager as “emotional” after the Blues completed their pre-season campaign with a 3-1 victory over Real Sociedad.

Morgan Rogers marked his Chelsea debut with a goal following his British-record £117million move from Aston Villa, while João Pedro scored twice after the interval.

For Alonso, however, the occasion was also about establishing an early connection with Chelsea supporters ahead of the Premier League season.

Rogers needed only 11 minutes to open the scoring, tapping home from close range on his first appearance for the club.

Real Sociedad responded through Jon Aramburu shortly before half-time, but Chelsea regained control after the break.

João Pedro headed home a Reece James cross to restore the lead before scoring again to complete the 3-1 victory.

“It was emotional to feel my first time in the new home,” Alonso said.

“A great reception from the supporters to the team and to the new staff, myself as well, so delighted.”

The former Real Madrid manager stressed the importance of developing a strong relationship between his team and the Stamford Bridge crowd.

“We want to give them good football so they will give us energy, and we connect,” he added.

Alonso was also encouraged by the minutes given to players who only recently returned to training following the World Cup.

Rogers, James and Maxence Lacroix were among those building their fitness despite having only been back with the squad for a matter of days.

“For some players it was the first one and the last one,” Alonso said of Chelsea's final pre-season fixture.

He acknowledged there were still areas to improve but was pleased to finally have the squad together ahead of competitive action.

Chelsea now have nine days to prepare for their Premier League opener against Fulham on Monday, 24 August.

Alonso now has a full week of training to prepare his squad for the visit of Fulham on 24 August.

Fitness will remain important for players who returned late after the World Cup, but the Chelsea manager believes the Real Sociedad victory provided a positive final test before competitive football begins.