Chelsea’s new manager Xabi Alonso said he is excited about the opportunity to lead the Premier League club, describing his appointment as the right move at the right time.
Key Factors
The Spaniard will begin his role on July 1, 2026, having agreed a four-year contract at Stamford Bridge. In his first stint as a coach, he led Bayer Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga title win back in 2023/24. In May, Chelsea announced the appointment of former Liverpool and Real Madrid star Xabi Alonso as their new manager. Alonso was signed on a four-year deal. Xabi has won two UEFA Champions Leagues as a player, one each with Liverpool and Real Madrid, and also captured the FA Cup, La Liga, Copa del Rey and Bundesliga (with Bayern Munich) as a player.
The new manager outlined his vision for Chelsea, saying he wants to develop a team that plays with intensity, controls matches and delivers attractive football.
Acknowledging the expectations surrounding the role, the former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen manager said he is ready to embrace the challenge and give his best for the club. A statement from the club said, “Chelsea Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Xabi Alonso as Manager of the men’s team.
