Xabi Alonso makes final decision over Chelsea move after FA Cup final defeat

Xabi Alonso has reached an agreement in principle to become Chelsea’s next manager, according to reports.

Chelsea have been searching for a permanent manager after deciding to sack Liam Rosenior in April.

Calum McFarlane is currently Chelsea’s interim head coach until the end of the season and was in the dugout for the team’s 1-0 defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup final on Saturday.

Chelsea’s hierarchy have considered several managerial options including Andoni Iraola, Marco Silva and Oliver Glasner.

But after holding initial talks with Alonso this month, RMC Sport are reporting that Chelsea have now reached an agreement in principle for the Spaniard to take over this summer.

The report adds that Alonso will be given a contract which will run for least two years, while Chelsea’s hierarchy will allow the 44-year-old to have an active role in the summer transfer window.

Alonso has been out of work since he was sacked by Real Madrid in January after 233 days in charge.

Before returning to Madrid as manager, Alonso enjoyed a hugely successful spell at Bayer Leverkusen as he guided the German club to the domestic double in 2024, as well as the Europa League final where they were beaten by Atalanta.

Alonso has also been linked with a return to Liverpool but the club are opting to stick with Arne Slot for the start of next season.

Speaking this week, Slot made it clear that he believes he will remain as Liverpool manager.

‘I have every reason to believe that I am the Liverpool manager next season,’ Slot said.

‘First of all, I am contracted to this club, and second of all from all the talks we are having.

‘Plans have been made and talks have been ongoing between the club and new players, and I am involved in that, if that is what you want to know.’

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