AFCON 2025
Chelsea have officially appointed former Liverpool and Spain midfielder Xabi Alonso as the club’s new manager on a four-year contract starting in July.
The 44-year-old Spaniard takes over after leaving Real Madrid by mutual consent in January, less than eight months into a three-year deal at the club.
Alonso arrives at Stamford Bridge with a growing reputation as one of Europe’s brightest young managers after a successful spell with Bayer Leverkusen. During his three years in Germany, he guided the club to their first-ever Bundesliga title in 2024 and also lifted the German Cup.
Chelsea confirmed Alonso’s appointment a day after their FA Cup final defeat to Manchester City, with the Blues hoping the Spaniard can finally bring stability following another turbulent campaign.
The London club have already gone through two permanent managers this season, with Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior both leaving their roles, while interim boss Calum McFarlane will remain in charge for Chelsea’s final two Premier League matches.
Speaking after the announcement, Alonso said he was honoured to take charge of one of football’s biggest clubs.
“Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in world football and it fills me with immense pride to become manager of this great club,” Alonso said.
“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.”
As a player, Alonso enjoyed a successful five-year spell with Liverpool FC, winning the UEFA Champions League in 2005. He also featured for Real Sociedad, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.
On the international stage, Alonso earned 114 caps for Spain national football team, winning the 2010 FIFA World Cup and two UEFA European Championships.
Chelsea are currently ninth in the Premier League table and still battling for a possible Conference League qualification spot after missing out on Europa League qualification through the FA Cup. The club’s hierarchy believes Alonso’s tactical quality, leadership and experience at the highest level can help restore Chelsea’s status among Europe’s elite.
