Chelsea Football Club have reportedly reached a total agreement to appoint former Liverpool F.C. midfielder Xabi Alonso as the club’s new manager.
According to The Athletic, Alonso has accepted the opportunity to take charge at Stamford Bridge after visiting London earlier this month, following the departure of Liam Rosenior.
The report stated that a four-year contract is currently being finalised, with an official announcement expected in the coming days.
Former AFC Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola was also considered for the role before Chelsea moved closer to securing Alonso’s appointment.
Alonso, 44, has been without a coaching role since leaving Real Madrid in January, less than a year into a three-year contract.
Before his spell at Madrid, Alonso enjoyed a historic stint with Bayer 04 Leverkusen, guiding the German side to their first-ever Bundesliga title during the 2023/24 season while completing the domestic campaign unbeaten.
As a player, Alonso remains widely respected for his successful five-year spell in the Premier League with Liverpool, where he famously won the UEFA Champions League in 2005.
Chelsea parted ways with Rosenior in April after a disappointing run of form that included five consecutive Premier League defeats, forcing the club’s hierarchy to seek fresh leadership ahead of the new season.
The appointment of Alonso would mark one of the most high-profile managerial moves of the summer and signals Chelsea’s intent to rebuild under a coach regarded as one of Europe’s brightest tactical minds.
What You Should Know
Xabi Alonso’s potential appointment represents a major statement of intent from Chelsea as the club seeks stability after another turbulent campaign.
Alonso has quickly built a reputation as one of Europe’s elite young managers, particularly after his remarkable unbeaten Bundesliga-winning season with Bayer Leverkusen. His tactical flexibility, calm leadership style, and strong pedigree as both a player and coach make him an attractive option for a Chelsea side desperate for direction.
If confirmed, his biggest challenge will be restoring consistency, managing Chelsea’s large squad, and guiding the club back into serious contention for domestic and European honours.
