Chelsea appoint Alonso as new manager
Sports
Mon, 18 May 2026 6:40 GMT
Chelsea F.C. have appointed Xabi Alonso as manager on a four-year contract starting in July, the club announced on Sunday.
The move comes after Chelsea’s 1-0 defeat to Manchester City F.C. in the FA Cup final capped a disappointing, trophyless season.
Alonso replaces a series of managers under Chelsea’s BlueCo ownership, with the club currently ninth in the Premier League.
The 44-year-old returns to English football after previously starring for Liverpool F.C. as a player.
As a coach, Alonso rose to prominence at Bayer 04 Leverkusen, leading the club to an unbeaten Bundesliga title in the 2023-24 season.
“There is great talent in the squad and huge potential at this football club,” Alonso said. “The focus is now on hard work and winning trophies.”
