Former Liverpool star Xabi Alonso (44) has been appointed as the new manager of English Premier League club Chelsea, the London club announced on Sunday. Alonso has signed a four-year contract with the Stamford Bridge outfit and is expected to take up the position on July 1st.

“Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in world football, and I am filled with immense pride to become the manager of this great club,” Alonso said.

Alonso was out of work since being released by Real Madrid in January, shortly after Enzo Maresca left Stamford Bridge. Maresca's successor at Chelsea is expected to be Liam Rosenior.