Manchester United icon Rio Ferdinand has commented on Xabi Alonso’s decision to become the next Chelsea manager.

The Englishman expressed surprise regarding the choice made by Liverpool legend Alonso, who signed a four-year contract with the Blues.

Alonso, who made 210 appearances for Liverpool, had a successful playing career at Anfield. He was part of the Reds’ memorable victory in the 2005 Champions League final held in Istanbul. Even though Alonso departed from Liverpool in 2009, the Merseyside club has always held a special place in his heart.

Since establishing himself as a coach at the senior level, Alonso has been rumored to be a candidate for the managerial position at Anfield. Speculation has been rampant since the beginning of the year, particularly with Arne Slot facing challenges at Liverpool and Alonso leaving Real Madrid in January.

However, Chelsea has now officially announced their agreement with Alonso to succeed Liam Rosenior as the permanent manager at Stamford Bridge. In discussing the appointment, Ferdinand acknowledged that he believed Alonso would have the patience to wait and observe the situation with Slot at Anfield before committing to another club.

He remarked on Rio Ferdinand Presents via Metro UK, “I’m genuinely surprised he’s taken that position. I’m not suggesting he’s the wrong choice.

“The reason I’m taken aback by his decision is that I thought he would have been patient enough to see how the Arne Slot situation at Liverpool would unfold.”

Ferdinand highlighted Alonso’s consistent expression of affection for Liverpool and suggested that the Spaniard would have been the next in line to take over from Slot, had he chosen to wait.

He said, “As an ex-Liverpool player, he cherished the club, always speaks positively about it, and one would think that was a relationship poised to develop behind the scenes.

“If he had just remained patient, considering the current circumstances and developments at Liverpool, he would surely be next in line for that position.”

Alonso has committed to ensuring Chelsea competes at the highest level consistently while also prioritizing the pursuit of trophies.