Xabi Alonso Set to Join Chelsea as New Manager

Following Chelsea's 1-0 loss to Manchester City in the FA Cup final on Saturday, Xabi Alonso has reportedly reached a preliminary agreement to become the club's next manager. Chelsea is currently seeking a permanent manager after dismissing Liam Rosenior in April, with Calum McFarlan serving as the interim head coach until the end of the season.

Chelsea is evaluating several managerial candidates, including Andoni Iraola, Marco Silva, and Oliver Glasner. Reports indicate that Alonso, who was dismissed from Real Madrid in January after a 233-day tenure, will be offered a contract lasting at least two years.

This contract will allow the 44-year-old to play an active role in the summer transfer window. Alonso previously enjoyed a successful stint at Bayer Leverkusen, leading the team to a domestic double and reaching the 2024 Europa League final, where they were defeated by Atalanta.