- Xabi Alonso has been confirmed as Chelsea's new manager, signing a four-year contract to begin on 1 July for the 2026/27 season.
- He succeeds Liam Rosenior and will likely lead the club in a season without European football, with Chelsea currently ninth in the Premier League.
- Alonso, who previously led Bayer Leverkusen to a Bundesliga triumph and played for Liverpool, expressed “immense pride” in joining “one of the biggest clubs in world football”.
- Chelsea's ownership believes Alonso's coaching quality, leadership, and character are key to building a team capable of consistently competing for trophies.
- His role as 'manager' rather than 'head coach' signals increased influence, with Alonso and the ownership heavily involved in the club's transfer policy.
IN FULL
