Chelsea have appointed former Xabi Alonso as their new manager on a four-year deal starting in July.
A club statement read: “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.”
“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.”
The 44-year-old left Real Madrid by mutual consent in January, less than eight months into a three-year spell.
He previously guided Bayer Leverkusen to their first Bundesliga title in 2024, along with the German Cup. The appointment comes a day after Chelsea’s FA Cup final defeat to Manchester City.
Chelsea are aiming for stability after a turbulent season that saw spells under Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior, with Calum McFarlane currently in interim charge for the final two Premier League matches.
“Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in world football and it fills me with immense pride to become manager of this great club,” said Alonso.
“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.”
Xabi Alonso spent five years in the Premier League with Liverpool, helping them win the Champions League in 2005. He also played for Real Sociedad, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.
At international level, he made 114 appearances for Spain, winning the 2010 World Cup and two European Championships.
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