Xabi Alonso first words as Chelsea new manager
Chelsea have appointed Xabi Alonso as their new head coach on a four-year contract beginning in July.
The appointment comes less than 24 hours after Chelsea lost the FA Cup final to Manchester City and follows another turbulent season at Stamford Bridge.
Alonso becomes Chelsea’s third permanent manager within a year after the departures of Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior, while interim coach Calum McFarlane will remain in charge for the club’s final two Premier League fixtures.
Alonso targets trophies at Stamford Bridge
The 44-year-old Spaniard said discussions with Chelsea’s ownership convinced him the club shared his long-term vision.
“Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in world football and it fills me with immense pride to become manager of this great club,” Alonso said.
“From my conversations with the ownership group and sporting leadership, it is clear we share the same ambition.”
“We want to build a team capable of competing consistently at the highest level and fighting for trophies.”
Alonso also stressed the importance of improving the culture around the squad as Chelsea attempt to restore consistency after another unstable campaign.
Alonso has had a successful coaching rise
Alonso arrives at Chelsea after leaving Real Madrid by mutual consent earlier this year.
Before his short spell in Madrid, he enjoyed major success with Bayer Leverkusen, guiding the German side to their first Bundesliga title and a German Cup triumph in 2024.
As a player, Alonso spent five seasons at Liverpool, winning the Champions League in 2005.
He also represented Bayern Munich and Real Madrid during a decorated playing career.
Chelsea seek long-term stability
Chelsea’s hierarchy hope Alonso can provide stability after another season marked by managerial changes and inconsistent performances.
The former Spain international inherits a squad packed with young talent but one that has struggled to maintain form throughout the campaign.
Alonso won the 2010 FIFA World Cup and two European Championships with Spain during his international career and made 114 appearances for the national team.