Former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso is reportedly open to the idea of becoming Chelsea manager, according to The Athletic's David Ornstein. The 44-year-old, who has been out of work since being sacked by Real Madrid in January, is being actively explored by Chelsea's sporting leadership group as they search for a permanent successor to Liam Rosenior.
Chelsea's Managerial Search Intensifies
Chelsea's hunt for a new head coach is now almost a month old, with the club's sporting leadership group beginning their search immediately after Rosenior's dismissal. Rosenior had a promising start but endured a miserable run of five straight league defeats without scoring a goal, which proved the final straw. Under-21 coach Calum McFarlane oversaw a 1-0 victory over Leeds to steer Chelsea into the FA Cup final, but a heavy 3-1 defeat at home to Nottingham Forest highlighted the team's struggles.
Since Rosenior's sacking, high-profile names such as Cesc Fabregas, Xavi, and Andoni Iraola have been linked. Iraola has confirmed this season will be his last at Bournemouth, while Xavi is viewed as a realistic option. Alonso's name has now emerged as a strong candidate, with reports suggesting a deal is being explored.
Alonso's Impressive Track Record
Alonso earned admiration across European football for his extraordinary work at Bayer Leverkusen, his first senior management role. He led the club to an unprecedented undefeated domestic double in 2023/24, winning the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal. That success earned him a return to Real Madrid, where he was a fan favourite as a player, but he was sacked after only seven months following a defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final.
Despite his short stint at Madrid, Alonso remains highly regarded. He has also been linked with Liverpool, where Arne Slot is under pressure after a disappointing title defence. Former Chelsea and Liverpool midfielder Joe Cole suggested Alonso would light up Anfield, saying: 'That's the one thing that's always hanging there, and he might not be available again.'
Other Candidates Under Consideration
Iraola remains a strong contender, while Fulham's Marco Silva, former Chelsea defender Filipe Luis, and Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner are also under consideration. Chelsea are keen to avoid a knee-jerk decision and have not yet made a final call on their next manager.
