Chelsea Holds Direct Meeting With Champions League Winner About Vacant Coaching Position

Chelsea is reportedly in direct talks with former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso about taking over as the club’s manager, with a decision anticipated within a few days.

The team will face Manchester City in Saturday’s FA Cup final under interim manager Calum McFarlane, who currently runs the youth setup.

Chelsea has been without a permanent manager since Liam Rosenior was dismissed in April, marking the second managerial change this season after Enzo Maresca’s unexpected departure during the festive period.

The club seems to have identified Alonso as its leading candidate for the position.

European transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, speaking through Football Transfers, confirmed that negotiations with the 44‑year‑old are intensifying.

“Chelsea have had a direct meeting with Xabi Alonso and the final decision is expected very soon,” he added on X. “They plan to announce their next manager before the World Cup, talks are accelerating. “Chelsea also spoke to Andoni Iraola, Oliver Glasner and Marco Silva as part of their list.”

Alonso

Hiring Alonso would be a significant coup for Chelsea, yet the former Spain midfielder seems undecided between joining the West London club or waiting for a potential vacancy at Liverpool.

Aston Villa’s 4‑2 win over Liverpool on Friday night has made it more difficult for the Blues to expedite Alonso’s arrival, increasing pressure on Liverpool manager Arne Slot.

Also Read: