Chelsea F.C. have confirmed the appointment of Xabi Alonso as the club’s new men’s team manager.
Alonso will begin his role on 1 July 2026 after agreeing a four year contract at Stamford Bridge.
The club stated that the appointment reflects its assessment of Alonso’s coaching experience, leadership qualities, character and overall football philosophy as it prepares for the next phase of its development.
Alonso arrives at Chelsea after managerial spells at Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid C.F.. He also previously played in the Premier League with Liverpool F.C..
He becomes the fifth permanent manager during Todd Boehly’s ownership at Chelsea, following changes earlier in the season.
Chelsea Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Xabi Alonso as Manager of the Men’s Team.
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) May 17, 2026
The Spaniard will begin his role on July 1, 2026, having agreed a four-year contract at Stamford Bridge.
Welcome to Chelsea, Xabi!
His most notable managerial success came at Bayer Leverkusen, where he guided the team to major domestic achievements before his departure from Real Madrid earlier this season.
Alonso described Chelsea as one of the biggest clubs in world football and expressed that there is shared ambition with the ownership and sporting leadership to build a team capable of competing for trophies at the highest level.
Chelsea currently sit ninth in the Premier League standings with two matches remaining and remain at risk of missing out on European qualification for next season. The club also recently lost the FA Cup final to Manchester City F.C. and are set to face Tottenham Hotspur F.C. in their next league fixture.
