Premier League giants Chelsea FC have confirmed the appointment of Xabi Alonso as the club’s new manager on a four-year contract.
The former Real Madrid CF and Liverpool FC midfielder is expected to officially begin work at Stamford Bridge on July 1, becoming the latest coach tasked with reviving Chelsea’s fortunes after another disappointing campaign.
Chelsea’s announcement comes just a day after the club suffered defeat to Manchester City FC in the FA Cup final, with the Blues also struggling in the Premier League standings heading into the closing weeks of the season.
Alonso arrives in London with a growing reputation as one of Europe’s brightest young managers following his impressive spell at Bayer 04 Leverkusen, where he guided the German side to an unbeaten domestic league and cup double during the 2023/24 campaign.
His time at Real Madrid, however, proved far less successful. The Spaniard left the Spanish giants earlier this year after only a few months in charge following a difficult run of results.
In a statement released by Chelsea, Alonso expressed excitement about taking over at one of football’s biggest clubs and said he is eager to build a competitive side capable of challenging for trophies again.
Chelsea’s ownership will hope the appointment finally brings stability after several managerial changes in recent seasons despite heavy spending in the transfer market.
The London side have not lifted a major domestic trophy in years, increasing pressure on the club’s hierarchy to deliver results quickly under Alonso’s leadership.