Chelsea close to appointing Xabi Alonso following FA Cup final defeat
Reports indicate a four-year deal is imminent for the former Real Madrid coach, though questions remain over squad control and financial compliance.
Manchester City secured their third FA Cup title in four years with a 1-0 victory over Chelsea, extending the London club’s winless run in the final to four consecutive defeats since 2020. The result concludes a season that has failed to meet expectations, with Chelsea failing to qualify for European competition despite entering the campaign with Champions League status and the FIFA Club World Cup title.
Chelsea are reportedly close to appointing Xabi Alonso as the next permanent manager, with sources suggesting a four-year deal is being finalised. The appointment follows a turbulent period under interim head coach Calum McFarlane, who took charge after the departure of Enzo Maresca. The club is seeking a new strategic direction after a campaign characterised by a seven-match winless streak in Premier League play.
Reports indicate that Chelsea may grant Alonso significant control over squad construction, marking a departure from the operational model typically enforced by owners BlueCo. This shift comes amid scrutiny regarding Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), particularly if the club undertakes a major overhaul involving established top-tier talent rather than developing young prospects.
The search for stability follows the brief tenure of Liam Rosenior, who joined from BlueCo-owned club Strasbourg but failed to stabilise the team. Rosenior’s appointment highlighted the club’s inconsistent approach to leadership, a trend that has persisted since Thomas Tuchel’s departure following the 2021 Champions League final.
Chelsea have not qualified for European competition this season, a significant regression for a club that won the Premier League five times between 2005 and 2017. With two Premier League games remaining, the club faces a critical summer to address structural issues and restore competitiveness, should the appointment of Alonso proceed.
