Xabi Alonso has reached an agreement to become the new head coach of Chelsea, sources have informed ESPN, with an official announcement from the club expected within the next 24 hours. The deal, finalized late on Sunday, sees the former Liverpool and Real Madrid star return to the Premier League in a managerial capacity.
Alonso, 42, will step into the role at Stamford Bridge following a sensational spell in Germany with Bayer Leverkusen, where he guided the team to an unprecedented unbeaten domestic league campaign and a DFB Pokal triumph. His tactical acumen and composed demeanor quickly marked him as one of the brightest young coaching talents in the European game.
The Spanish coach enjoyed an illustrious playing career that included Champions League titles with both Liverpool and Real Madrid, along with a World Cup win with Spain in 2010. That experience at the highest level, combined with his seamless transition into coaching, made him a priority target for Chelsea's board as they sought a long-term leader for the project.
Chelsea have been without a permanent head coach since parting ways with Mauricio Pochettino at the end of the previous season. A thorough search led the club's hierarchy to Alonso, who was under contract at Leverkusen until 2026 but has now agreed to terms on a multiyear deal at Stamford Bridge.
The appointment is expected to bring a progressive, possession-based style to Chelsea, aligning with the club's investment in young, technical players. Alonso's ability to develop talent was evident at Leverkusen, where Florian Wirtz and others flourished under his guidance, and the Blues will hope for a similar impact on their squad.
With confirmation set to arrive within the next day, preparations are already underway for Alonso's arrival in London. He will face the immediate challenge of lifting Chelsea back into Premier League contention after a disappointing campaign that saw them miss out on European qualification.
Based on reporting from ESPN.