Xabi Alonso emerges as leading candidate for Chelsea job
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Xabi Alonso is under consideration to become next Chelsea head coach. Image Credits: Imago ImagesChelsea are searching for a new head coach after parting ways with Liam Rosenior, with several high-profile names already under consideration.Andoni Iraola, Marco Silva and Xabi Alonso are among the managers being discussed by the club as potential replacements ahead of the summer.Chelsea believe this upcoming window will offer a stronger pool of experienced candidates compared to their last managerial appointment.When Enzo Maresca was hired in June 2024, Kieran McKenna was also on the shortlist, with neither having Premier League managerial experience at the time.This time, the club are prioritising candidates with top-flight experience or a proven track record at elite level.
Iraola is set to leave Bournemouth this summer, Alonso is currently out of work, while Silva’s Fulham contract is nearing its end.According to TYC Sports, Chelsea are making progress in their pursuit of Xabi Alonso, who guided Bayer Leverkusen to a Bundesliga title. There have also been reports linking Alonso with a possible future role at Liverpool, where Arne Slot is currently in charge, highlighting the growing competition for the Spaniard’s signature.Chelsea are not expected to rush into a new appointment, with Calum McFarlane set to remain in charge until the end of the season.Xabi Alonso has been out of work since leaving Real Madrid in January.
After Jurgen Klopp’s departure from Liverpool in 2024, the Reds previously explored a move for Alonso, but he opted to stay at Bayer Leverkusen before later taking charge at Madrid.Bayern Munich remain another potential destination, given Alonso’s past as a player there, although Vincent Kompany is currently enjoying a strong spell in charge, reducing the likelihood of a vacancy.Meanwhile, Liverpool’s situation continues to attract attention. Arne Slot’s position is understood to be secure despite a difficult second season, although there is no confirmation yet of a contract extension.His current deal runs until 2027, meaning he could enter next summer with just a year remaining, which may prompt internal discussions at Anfield.That uncertainty has kept speculation around potential successors alive, even if top sources have played down any immediate change.Alonso remains a popular name among supporters as a possible future Liverpool manager, but at present he appears more likely to be in opposition dugouts rather than returning to Anfield any time soon.