Chelsea are pushing to appoint Xabi Alonso as their next head coach, with the Spaniard emerging as the leading candidate to lead a new era at Stamford Bridge ahead of a crucial summer rebuild.
Chelsea are actively exploring the possibility of appointing Xabi Alonso as their next permanent head coach as the club looks to rebuild after a disappointing campaign.
The former Bayer Leverkusen boss has emerged as one of the leading candidates for the role, and sources close to the situation have confirmed that early exploratory discussions have already taken place between both parties.
Alonso is believed to be intrigued by the opportunity at Stamford Bridge, although he wants greater clarity regarding the level of authority and influence he would have over football matters before making any decision.
🚨 Xabi Alonso opens doors to Premier League move this summer after initial contacts with his agents.
Chelsea have a shortlist with candidates for the job and aware of his availability, same for Andoni Iraola who wants to continue in Premier League.
No decision made yet on club… pic.twitter.com/oxwbXhiMPA
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 12, 2026
At this stage of the process, Chelsea view Alonso and former midfielder Cesc Fabregas as the standout options to lead the club into a new era, with the hierarchy eager to restore stability and reconnect with frustrated supporters.
Sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart are leading the search for a new manager amid growing unrest around the club following Chelsea’s poor run of form and mounting criticism directed at the ownership structure.
While Chelsea have prepared a broader shortlist in case moves for Alonso or Fabregas collapse, the club’s current focus remains firmly fixed on the two Spaniards. The Blues are hoping to finalise an appointment before the start of the upcoming World Cup.
There is also increasing concern internally about Chelsea’s ability to attract elite players this summer, particularly if they fail to secure European football. Club officials fear the current instability and declining reputation could weaken their position in the transfer market.
Despite those concerns, Chelsea still have an opportunity to end the season on a positive note when they face Manchester City in the FA Cup final at Wembley, while the search for the club’s next long-term leader continues behind the scenes.
