Chelsea Close to Naming Xabi Alonso as Head Coach
Chelsea Football Club is nearing the appointment of Spaniard Xabi Alonso as its next permanent head coach. Alonso, 44, who previously managed Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen, is anticipated to sign a four-year contract in the near future.
The club at Stamford Bridge has been actively seeking a successor to Liam Rosenior, who was dismissed last month. According to 's report on Monday, Chelsea initiated contact with several potential candidates, including Alonso, Bournemouth's Andoni Iraola, Fulham's Marco Silva, and Crystal Palace's Oliver Glasner.
Among these, Alonso, a former midfielder for Real Madrid and Liverpool, has emerged as the preferred candidate, with negotiations now approaching final stages. The club opted to wait until after the FA Cup final against Manchester City before publicly announcing any appointment.
Discussions have been ongoing for several weeks, with Alonso reportedly receptive to the position contingent upon receiving certain assurances.
Links to Liverpool and Managerial Prospects
In recent weeks, Alonso has been linked to a potential managerial role at Liverpool, where he played for five seasons. This speculation has intensified amid growing pressure on Liverpool's current manager, Arne Slot, following a disappointing season.
However, Liverpool appears prepared to retain Slot for the upcoming season. It remains uncertain if this stance will change should Liverpool fail to qualify for the Champions League.
Alonso's Managerial Career and Achievements
Alonso has been without a managerial position since departing Real Madrid in January after a tenure of less than eight months. Prior to that, during the 2023-24 season, he led Bayer Leverkusen to their first Bundesliga title, achieving the feat without losing a single game. Additionally, he secured the German Cup in his first full season as a senior club manager before moving to Real Madrid last summer.
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