Reports: Chelsea to hire Xabi Alonso as new head coach

Field Level Media|published: 05/16/2026, 4:03pm EDT

[Subscription Customers Only] Jul 9, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso before a semifinal match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Amanda Perobelli-Reuters via Imagn Images

Chelsea is set to hire Xabi Alonso as their next head coach, according to multiple reports.

He is finalizing a four-year contract and was the club's top target, per The Athletic.

Alonso was hired as the head coach of Real Madrid in 2025, but both sides mutually agreed to part ways in January. His overall record with the club was 24-6-4.

Liam Rosenior was Chelsea's previous head coach. He was hired in January, but he was fired in April after a scoreless, five-game losing streak. Calum McFarlane has been serving as the club's interim manager.

Chelsea lost in the FA Cup final on Saturday 1-0 to Manchester City. They hold a Premier League record of 13-13-10 with 49 points.

--Field Level Media