Expert: Xabi Alonso to oversee Chelsea exodus as six star names could be sold

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(Credit: Imago) Xabi Alonso: Chelsea boss’ first task revealed as six players could leave in major clear-out Mon 18 May 2026 12:39, UK Xabi Alonso is set to analyse his Chelsea squad to identify problem positions and assess his players’ characters ahead of taking over this summer.The 44-year-old will be tasked with getting his players focused and gaining their respect after seeing Liam Rosenior fail to do so during his short spell.A number of influential players in the Blues squad have already been identified as potential concerns and the boss will weigh up their futures before he takes over.Former Man United assistant manager Mick Brown told Football Insider that Alonso could cut ties with as many as six players immediately after taking over.The new manager plans to be ruthless in his attempts to root out the causes of the recent issues at Stamford Bridge in what could be a crucial transfer window for Chelsea. MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES What does Xabi Alonso have planned for Chelsea?Former Aston Villa CEO Keith Wyness told Football Insider on 18 May that Alonso will bring a “change of culture” to Chelsea and they have been fortunate to land him.The boss has experienced working with big egos during his time at Real Madrid, and while that eventually led to his exit, he is believed to have learned from the experience.Xabi Alonso RecordReal MadridBayer LeverkusenGames341140Wins2489Draws432Losses619Goals For72315Goals Against38155Trophies WonN/A1x Bundesliga1x DFB PokalXabi Alonso’s managerial record in his previous jobs.Ahead of taking over at Stamford Bridge, the boss will make judgements on multiple players and could spearhead an overhaul of his squad if given the backing.“Alonso has a huge job on his hands at Chelsea,” Brown told Football Insider.“His first job as Chelsea manager is to assess what he’s got in that squad, the good and the bad, and to quickly get rid of the bad influences.“It’s much easier said than done, but he has to pick through that squad, assess which players he wants to be part of his side, and identify those he will want to get rid of.“The way this Chelsea squad has been with managers this season, I would suggest there a fair few players he will want to get rid of when he comes in.“Five or six players in that Chelsea team will either be seen as not good enough or bad influences, and it’s on Alonso now to assess who those players are.“He has to root out the negativity and be ruthless with it, it doesn’t matter who the players are or how good they might be, bad attitudes need to be moved on.”Which players could be forced out of Chelsea?Ahead of Alonso’s plans to assess his squad, a number of Chelsea players have already emerged as potential issues following Rosenior’s time in charge.While the former Hull City boss never seemed to get a handle on the dressing room, the likes of Enzo Fernandez and Marc Cucurella were singled out for criticism.Credit: Getty ImagesBrown told Football Insider last month that Chelsea are prepared to let Fernandez leave amid concerns that his attitude will only cause further problems for them.The midfielder was exiled from Rosenior’s side after he publicly criticised the manager and the board, and he is believed to have sparked issues behind the scenes.While he is not the only problem player at Stamford Bridge, with as many as six players identified as possible issues, Alonso will have a huge job on his hands. 🦁 Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Chelsea Insider Access Get the full story from Stamford Bridge and Cobham with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from West London.