Chelsea confirm Alonso appointment as next manager

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Updated / Sunday, 17 May 2026 10:09 The ex-Liverpool midfielder enjoyed success at Bayer Leverkusen but his time at Real Madrid was cut short earlier this season Xabi Alonso's appointment as Chelsea manager has been confirmed on a four-year deal. It emerged soon after the 1-0 defeat that Chelsea had reached an agreement in principle with Alonso, who becomes the latest appointment under BlueCo’s ownership.

Now the focus is on hard work, building the right culture and winning trophies." Chelsea began the season with Enzo Maresca in charge, but he departed in January following tension with the club’s hierarchy, who then turned to Rosenior, only to sack him after just three months. In announcing Alonso’s appointment, Chelsea described him as "one of the most respected figures in the modern game".

"His appointment reflects the club’s belief in his broad set of experiences, coaching quality and game model, leadership attributes, character and integrity, which were key to the decision to ask him to help lead the next phase of Chelsea’s journey," read a statement. "Chelsea Football Club looks forward with confidence to the next phase in collaboration with Xabi, united in the determination to bring success to Stamford Bridge, a hallmark of the club’s history and future." More stories on Read Next