Xabi Alonso is smiling this morning. The Spaniard has been named Chelsea’s new manager, the club confirmed on Sunday morning.
Alonso, the former Real Madrid coach, will start on July 1, 2026. He has signed a four‑year contract at Stamford Bridge and will take charge of the Blues next season.
Speaking to the club’s website, Alonso made his aim clear: he wants silverware. “Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in world football, and it fills me with immense pride to become manager of this great club,” Alonso said.
“From my conversations with the ownership group and sporting leadership, it is clear we share the same ambition. We want to build a team capable of competing consistently at the highest level and fighting for trophies.”
Short, sharp and ambitious — that’s the message. Chelsea fans will be watching closely as Alonso prepares to steer the club from July.
