Following a turbulent period at Chelsea Football Club, the club has announced former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen head coach Xabi Alonso as their new manager, signing a contract until 2030.
“The Spaniard will begin his role on July 1, 2026, having agreed a four-year contract at Stamford Bridge,” Chelsea said in a statement on Sunday.
“One of the most respected figures in the modern game, Alonso arrives at Chelsea having already experienced coaching at the highest level of European football with Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen, where he led the German club to the first league title in their history.
His appointment reflects the Club’s belief in his broad set of experiences, coaching quality and game model, leadership attributes, character and integrity, which were key to the decision to ask him to help lead the next phase of Chelsea’s journey.
He is regarded not only as an outstanding football coach, but also as a proven leader and partner across a number of areas essential to the demands of driving the team,” the club added.
Following his appointment, Xabi Alonso said: “Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in world football and it fills me with immense pride to become manager of this great club.
“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.”
Alonso’s arrival follows short spells by Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior. The move is designed to finally bring some stability to Stamford Bridge, with reports suggesting Alonso made sure he had a strong say over squad matters before putting pen to paper.
The Spanish national is known for his attractive, possession-based style and his knack for developing young players — something that fits well with Chelsea’s current squad.
Chelsea sacked Maresca in January 2026, brought in Rosenior and then let him go after just four months, before turning to interim boss Calum McFarlane.
