Xabi Alonso appointed as new manager of Chelsea FC

Chelsea Football Club has officially announced the appointment of Xabi Alonso as the new manager of the men's team. The 44-year-old coach has signed a four-year contract, which is set to begin on July 1, 2026. Prior to this role, Alonso managed Bayer Leverkusen, where he secured an undefeated double in the 2023/24 season, and served as a coach at Real Madrid's academy. His appointment follows a period of speculation regarding the club's managerial search after the departure of previous staff. Reports from Spanish and English media confirmed the final agreement shortly after Chelsea's FA Cup final appearance against Manchester City. Alonso expressed his pride in joining the club, which he described as one of the biggest in world football. The transition will see the Spaniard take full control of the team's development starting this summer.