Xabi Alonso reveals Chelsea ‘ambition’ after Liverpool legend becomes manager
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Published May 17, 2026 9:09am Updated May 17, 2026 9:09am Xabi Alonso will take over at Chelsea in July (Picture: Getty) Liverpool legend and former Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso has been confirmed as Chelsea’s new manager on a four-year contract. The Premier League club said in a statement: ‘Chelsea Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Xabi Alonso as Manager of the men’s team. ‘The Spaniard will begin his role on July 1, 2026, having agreed a four‑year contract at Stamford Bridge.‘One of the most respected figures in the modern game, Alonso arrives at Chelsea having already experienced coaching at the highest level of European football with Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen, where he led the German club to the first league title in their history. ‘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.
Get ready for the World Cup Get previews of every single team at the World Cup sent directly to your inbox, featuring the players to look out for, games you shouldn’t miss and Metro’s big England predictions. Don't miss out, sign up here. ‘He is regarded not only as an outstanding football coach, but also as a proven leader and partner across a number of areas essential to the demands of driving the team. ‘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.’ Explaining his decision to take the Chelsea job, Alonso said: ‘Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in world football and it fills me with immense pride to become manager of this great club. ‘From my conversations with the ownership group and sporting leadership, it is clear we share the same ambition.
We want to build a team capable of competing consistently at the highest level and fighting for trophies. ‘There is great talent in the squad and huge potential at this football club and it will be my great honour to lead it. Now the focus is on hard work, building the right culture and winning trophies.’ More to follow… Arrow MORE: ‘No-brainer’ – Man Utd urged to make stunning transfer bid for £107m Chelsea star Arrow MORE: Paul Scholes urges England to take ‘unbelievable’ Max Dowman to the World Cup Arrow MORE: £60m Chelsea star in talks to leave before Xabi Alonso arrival In The Mixer’s World Cup special Get previews of every single team at the World Cup sent directly to your inbox, featuring the players to look out for, games you shouldn’t miss and Metro’s big England predictions.