Chelsea’s search for a new manager is entering its final phase, with former Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso emerging as the club’s top target. According to the British newspaper *i*, the Blues have drawn up a three-man shortlist to replace Liam Rosenior, and Alonso currently leads the chase.
The former Real Madrid midfielder is open to taking charge at Stamford Bridge, despite the struggles of recent Chelsea managers. Enzo Maresca left after falling out with the club hierarchy, while Rosenior was sacked following a chaotic season. Alongside Alonso, Chelsea are considering Fulham manager Marco Silva and Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola, who will be a free agent this summer. Como manager Cesc Fabregas has also been linked, but the former Chelsea midfielder is expected to stay with the Serie A surprise package for at least another season.
According to Sky Sports, Chelsea hope to finalize the appointment by mid-next month. The new coach will play a key role in the summer transfer window, with greater influence over recruitment. Maresca left abruptly after four years in charge, partly due to a lack of that authority, having clashed with the board over transfers and squad planning. Rosenior, brought in from Strasbourg mainly because of his ties to the BlueCo system, reportedly struggled to command respect in the dressing room. Chelsea are now more willing to empower a stronger, more experienced manager, and Alonso is expected to demand such control before agreeing to take over, especially given the club’s major rebuild this summer.
On-pitch pressures are also mounting. Key players like Enzo Fernandez and Cole Palmer face uncertain futures, and missing out on the Champions League could have financial implications for senior squad members. The Blues still have a chance to end the season with silverware—they face Manchester City in the FA Cup final—but there is growing belief that the club cannot afford another disappointing campaign.