Xabi Alonso has been unveiled as Chelsea‘s new manager, becoming the sixth permanent appointment at Stamford Bridge in just four years since the Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital takeover. The former Liverpool and Spain midfielder has signed a four-year contract and takes charge of a side that finished 10th in the Premier League last season.
Alonso has been given the title of “manager” rather than “head coach”, marking a potential shift in the club’s modern structure. He will work alongside sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart, with whom he says he is “aligned” on decisions.
Instability and expectations
The appointment follows a chaotic period that has seen Enzo Maresca, Liam Rosenior, Mauricio Pochettino, Graham Potter and Frank Lampard all occupy the dugout since 2022. Rosenior signed a six-year contract but lasted just 106 days, while Potter did not complete a single season despite once being one of the Premier League’s most sought-after coaches.
During his unveiling at Stamford Bridge’s Drake Suite, Alonso faced photographs of José Mourinho and Antonio Conte holding Premier League trophies—a stark reminder of the club’s recent decline into a season without European qualification. Alonso admitted that “proper talks” were required before he accepted the position, but insisted the opportunity was right. “I don’t think we are that far to creating a good team,” he said. “If we get the right balance and the right decisions, we can have a good season.”
Squad overhaul
The playing staff is undergoing significant change. Marc Cucurella has moved to Real Madrid for £52 million, while Andrey Santos joined Manchester United for £50 million and Tyrique George signed for Everton for £18 million. Incoming transfers include Marco Palestra from Atalanta for £47 million and Geovany Quenda from Sporting for £44 million.
Alejandro Garnacho, who arrived from Manchester United less than a year ago for £50 million, is expected to leave and has been absent from training. However, Alonso confirmed that Enzo Fernández wishes to stay despite intense transfer speculation linking him with a move.
Discipline and standards
Last season’s struggles included chronic indiscipline, with Wesley Fofana’s sending-off on the final day against Sunderland bringing the total to 11 red cards—a club record and double the tally of any other Premier League side. Alonso stressed the need for higher professional standards. “We want a team with the right mentality, the right hunger, the right standards and on a daily basis build on them,” he said.
Regarding Cole Palmer, whose campaign was disrupted by injuries and who was omitted from England‘s World Cup squad, Alonso offered support: “He’s special and if he’s enjoying it, he’s in a good mood, a good spirit, he can be a key player for us.”
Several players remain at the World Cup, meaning Alonso is yet to work with his full squad as pre-season preparations continue.