Chelsea appoints Xabi Alonso as manager on four-year deal
The Spaniard’s tenure begins in July 2026, with interim Calum McFarlane overseeing the final two matches of the current season.
Chelsea Football Club has officially confirmed the appointment of Xabi Alonso as the manager of its men’s team. The 44-year-old Spaniard has signed a four-year contract, with his tenure commencing on 1 July 2026. The announcement follows the departure of previous manager Liam Rosenior less than a month ago, a decision made in the wake of the club’s defeat in the FA Cup final against Manchester City.
Alonso arrives at Stamford Bridge after departing Real Madrid by mutual consent earlier this season. His time in Spain lasted less than eight months of a three-year contract, ending his stint as the club’s head coach. Prior to his move to the Spanish capital, Alonso spent three years managing Bayer Leverkusen, where he led the German side to the Bundesliga title and the German Cup in the 2023-24 season, securing the domestic double while remaining undefeated in league play.
Interim manager Calum McFarlane will oversee the final two matches of the current campaign, against Tottenham and Sunderland, before Alonso assumes full control. The appointment marks a significant shift in leadership for Chelsea, who are seeking to stabilise their performance after a turbulent period that included the recent FA Cup final loss.
The decision has drawn attention to Liverpool, who previously passed on Alonso in favour of Arne Slot when Jurgen Klopp announced his retirement two seasons ago. Liverpool are currently facing criticism from fans and club legends regarding the team’s performance under Slot, with supporters expressing dissatisfaction with what they describe as uninspiring football.
Alonso, a former Liverpool midfielder, was widely considered a top candidate for the Anfield role at the time of Klopp’s departure. His appointment at Chelsea highlights the contrasting fortunes of the two clubs, with Liverpool now grappling with fan backlash and questions over Slot’s future, while Alonso prepares to take charge at a club with a history of frequent managerial turnover.
