Xabi Alonso to Chelsea agreed with Blues to announce done deal after Man City loss

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The ex-Liverpool star is set to be announced as Chelsea's new boss after the Blues accelerated talks. 18:21, Sat, May 16, 2026 Updated: 18:31, Sat, May 16, 2026 Xabi Alonso will become the new Chelsea manager (Image: Getty Images)Chelsea are on the brink of naming Xabi Alonso as their next manager, with an announcement potentially coming as early as Sunday following a significant acceleration in talks with the former Real Madrid boss.

Football transfer news and rumours plus selected offers and competitions Invalid emailWe use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. Read our Privacy PolicyAlonso has been in intensive discussions after Chelsea sounded out a number of candidates, though it swiftly became apparent he was their outright first choice.The appointment signals a departure from the club's preference for younger managers, with Alonso's high-profile status perhaps indicating a shift in the ownership's strategy.

Heavy investment in young players on lengthy contracts has simply failed to deliver results this season.These developments regarding Alonso follow Chelsea's FA Cup final defeat to Manchester City. The move to appoint Alonso highlights Chelsea's resolve to return to silverware contention following a torrid campaign that culminated in Rosenior's dismissal after a dreadful run of results.The club now face the daunting prospect of missing out on Champions League football altogether and may even find themselves without European football of any kind next season.Yet that has not prevented them from securing Alonso's signature in a bid to reclaim their place amongst Europe's elite.