The search for a new coach has almost become routine at Chelsea FC. Since the club’s takeover in 2022 by an American consortium of influential co-owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali, seven different coaches have been on the sidelines, currently Calum McFarlane in interim. The new owners have mostly picked coaches who are not part of the established elite, with exceptions like Mauricio Pochettino and Thomas Tuchel from the era of former owner Roman Abramovich. However, a remarkable change seems to be happening now: Chelsea FC is on the verge of signing Xabi Alonso, 44, for the upcoming season.
The Basque is set to succeed the recently dismissed head coach Liam Rosenior in April. According to sports magazine The Athletic, Alonso has agreed to a four-year contract after traveling to London earlier this week for discussions. An official confirmation from the club is expected soon.
For Alonso, the allure of the challenge may lie in the enormous potential of the team. The potential signing of the former Bayer Leverkusen champion, who was released from Real Madrid after just half a season in January, is the most positive news in what has otherwise been a disappointing season for the Blues. Alonso seems to have the support of the team as well, with many players appreciating his involvement. Despite losing the FA Cup final to Manchester City 0-1, Chelsea’s performance was spirited and disciplined, especially compared to their recent seven winless Premier League matches which practically ended hopes of Champions League qualification. The winning goal was scored by winter signing Antoine Semenyo with a backheel in the 71st minute.
In negotiations with the highly sought-after Alonso, Chelsea pushed for a quick agreement to preempt potential competitors. The club seems willing to break its principles, moving away from just signing young players and focusing on stabilizing the squad. This could mean that Alonso will have more influence on team selection than his predecessors.
Alonso’s attraction to the job likely stems from the team’s vast potential. The total value of the 54 Chelsea players, including those out on loan, is estimated at 1.73 billion, more than any other club. With experience in Germany and Spain, a move to England seems like a logical next step for Alonso. Despite suggestions of a possible return to FC Liverpool, where Alonso once played, the Reds are likely to retain current coach Arne Slot despite a challenging season.
Alonso’s arrival is seen as a real coup for Chelsea’s decision-makers, who have been under pressure in recent weeks with criticism from both the team and fans. There have been protests from supporters against Boehly, Eghbali, and the consortium, including before the Wembley final on Saturday. With Xabi Alonso, Chelsea will hope to put an end to the constant coaching changes of recent years under the new owners, none of whom have held the position for more than a year and a half.
