Xabi Alonso, Chelsea
17 May 2026
Xabi Alonso reached a full agreement to become Chelsea manager after finalising a four-year contract with the Premier League club. Chelsea accelerated negotiations following the FA Cup final defeat and are expected to officially confirm the appointment within days.
Chelsea identified Alonso as their top managerial target after dismissing Liam Rosenior earlier this year. The former Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid coach accepted the role after discussions regarding transfer authority, squad planning and his long-term influence within the club structure.