Xabi Alonso has explained that timing — rather than any absence of affection for his former club — is what led him to take the Chelsea job instead of returning to Liverpool as manager.

The 44-year-old was formally introduced to the media on Monday, weeks after his appointment in May and his first sessions on the training ground last week. It marked the first chance for reporters to probe why a man who lifted the Champions League with Liverpool in 2005 had chosen a different path.

"It is about timings," Alonso told BBC Sport. "I am here today on my first day at Stamford Bridge, talking to you. I am looking forward to this challenge, a big challenge, and Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs and I am looking forward to having success here."

The Liverpool context

BBC Sport had previously reported that Alonso was not in contact with Liverpool in the weeks leading up to his Chelsea appointment. Liverpool had been widely expected to retain manager Arne Slot when Alonso signed with Chelsea, but the club subsequently made the decision to part ways with Slot after a trophyless second season.

Slot's successor, Andoni Iraola, shares a childhood friendship with Alonso — both grew up in San Sebastian — and the pair are represented by the same agent.

A manager, not just a head coach

Alonso becomes Chelsea's sixth permanent manager in four years under American ownership group BlueCo, led by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital. Notably, his two immediate predecessors — Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior — held the title of head coach. Alonso has been handed the full title of manager, a distinction that insiders suggest carries real weight, even as he continues to work alongside the club's five-strong sporting director team on transfer decisions.

Asked whether the title mattered in terms of authority, Alonso said: "What I like is that we work together and we are all part of the decisions we take, we all feel responsible for that. The ultimate goal is clear and, for me, it is the way it should be."

"We are confident that we are doing the right things in the right way. The potential is there. I think there is a strong base and a good team already there. We need to reinforce it in the right way and take good decisions to do that."

Palmer and the squad rebuild

Chelsea finished 10th in the Premier League last season — missing European qualification after a defeat at Sunderland on the final day — a result that carries consequences for squad planning and has forced the club to consider reducing the size of their roster.

The disappointing campaign also saw star players Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro miss out on international call-ups for the World Cup. Alonso, however, says Palmer has returned to pre-season in strong spirits following his England snub.

"So far we have been together for a few days and he has come in with a positive mindset and positive spirit. He wants to enjoy playing football," Alonso said. "He is a special player, a different class with a different quality, and if we help him by building a team around him that allows his talent to shine, we will be closer to success. I am sure of that."