Xabi Alonso has made it clear that his loyalty to Chelsea will take priority when the Blues face Liverpool in the Carabao Cup tonight at Anfield.
The Chelsea manager is preparing for another return to a stadium where he enjoyed some of the most memorable years of his playing career. Alonso represented Liverpool between 2004 and 2009, winning major honours and featuring in several intense encounters with Chelsea during a period when the two clubs developed a fierce rivalry.
Although Alonso has previously returned to Anfield as a manager with Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid, this occasion carries a different significance as he leads Chelsea against his former club.
Speaking ahead of the tie, Alonso stressed that his current responsibilities leave no room for divided loyalties. He intends to celebrate if Chelsea find the net, while continuing to show respect for Liverpool and the connection he maintains with the club.
Alonso explained that his relationship with Liverpool remains important, but his focus is firmly on helping Chelsea secure victory. He also acknowledged that his role has changed, with his commitment now centred on the club he manages.
The Spaniard also played down comparisons between tonight's encounter and his previous visits to Anfield. He pointed out that the Carabao Cup presents a different challenge, with a different team, competition and set of circumstances.
Chelsea's players are also familiar with the atmosphere at Anfield, having faced Liverpool on numerous occasions in domestic football. Alonso believes that experience will help his squad understand what awaits them, although he recognises that cup matches can produce unexpected moments.
With a place in the next round at stake, Alonso's message is straightforward: his history with Liverpool will be respected, but Chelsea's ambitions come first.
For the Blues boss, tonight is about more than revisiting old memories. It is an opportunity to lead his current team to a significant result against a club that played a major role in his footballing journey.