Xabi Alonso has reached an agreement in principle to become Chelsea’s next manager, according to reports. The decision comes after Chelsea’s 1-0 defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup final on Saturday, with interim head coach Calum McFarlane in charge.
Alonso’s Agreement with Chelsea
RMC Sport reports that Chelsea have now reached an agreement in principle for the Spaniard to take over this summer. Alonso will be given a contract that runs for at least two years, and the Chelsea hierarchy will allow the 44-year-old to have an active role in the summer transfer window.
Alonso has been out of work since he was sacked by Real Madrid in January after 233 days in charge. Before returning to Madrid, Alonso enjoyed a hugely successful spell at Bayer Leverkusen, guiding the German club to the domestic double in 2024 and the Europa League final, where they were beaten by Atalanta.
Other Managerial Candidates
Chelsea had considered several other options, including Andoni Iraola, Marco Silva, and Oliver Glasner, before holding initial talks with Alonso earlier this month.
Alonso’s Future at Liverpool
Alonso has also been linked with a return to Liverpool, but the club is opting to stick with Arne Slot for the start of next season. Slot made it clear this week that he believes he will remain as Liverpool manager. ‘I have every reason to believe that I am the Liverpool manager next season,’ Slot said. ‘First of all, I am contracted to this club, and second of all from all the talks we are having. Plans have been made and talks have been ongoing between the club and new players, and I am involved in that.’
Background on Chelsea’s Managerial Search
Chelsea have been searching for a permanent manager after deciding to sack Liam Rosenior in April. Calum McFarlane is currently serving as interim head coach until the end of the season.
This agreement marks a significant step for Chelsea as they look to rebuild under Alonso, who brings a wealth of experience from his time at Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid.
