Chelsea Targets Alonso

Chelsea remains confident in its ability to persuade Xabi Alonso to take the helm following a turbulent season.

Chelsea has accelerated its search for a new head coach, with Xabi Alonso emerging as the frontrunner for the hot seat at Stamford Bridge. According to The Guardian, the Chelsea hierarchy has been highly impressed by their initial discussions with the Spanish tactician.

Coach Xabi Alonso

Alonso has been without a managerial role since his departure from Real Madrid earlier this season. The 44-year-old manager, who made international headlines by guiding Bayer Leverkusen to the 2024 Bundesliga title, has reportedly been on Chelsea's radar for the past three years.

Internal sources at the West London club believe that Alonso’s possession-heavy philosophy and track record of developing young talent perfectly align with the current squad profile.

Furthermore, the former Spain midfielder's elite pedigree is viewed as a key asset for commanding respect in the dressing room and luring prospective transfers.

Despite this, a final decision has yet to be cemented. Alongside Alonso, the Stamford Bridge outfit is keeping a close watch on Andoni Iraola, who continues to impress at AFC Bournemouth. Chelsea has reportedly held face-to-face talks with Iraola regarding the vacancy.

Beyond the primary candidates, Fulham's Marco Silva, Crystal Palace's Oliver Glasner, and Filipe Luis remain on the shortlist.

Chelsea has entered a period of introspection following the sacking of Liam Rosenior, who was dismissed merely months after replacing Enzo Maresca. The club has pinpointed a lack of physical dominance and combative spirit within the ranks—deficiencies that make Iraola, with his signature high-intensity pressing system, an attractive alternative.

Meanwhile, Alonso's immediate future remains uncertain. Certain sources suggest he may prefer an extended sabbatical rather than an immediate return to the dugout.

Nevertheless, Chelsea remains optimistic about their chances of convincing the former Liverpool midfielder to usher in a new era at Stamford Bridge.