Alonso will take over as Chelsea manager from July

Xabi Alonso has been appointed as the new manager at Chelsea Football Club and will resume his role in July 2026.

The former Real Madrid boss has signed a four-year contract with the Blues, who were beaten 1-0 in the FA Cup final by Manchester City on Saturday.

The 44-year-old Spaniard is available after leaving Real Madrid by mutual consent in January, less than eight months into a three-year deal.

He previously spent three years managing Bayer Leverkusen, leading the German club to their first Bundesliga title in 2024, as well as the German Cup.

Chelsea made the announcement of his signing on Sunday morning.

Also Read: Man City beat Chelsea to win the FA Cup

“Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in world football and I feel very proud to be the manager of this great club,” said Alonso.

“From my conversations with the ownership group and sports leadership, it is clear we have the same ambitions. We want to build a team that is able to compete consistently at the highest level and fight for trophies.

“There is great talent in the squad and huge potential at this football club and it will be a great honor for me to lead it. Now the focus is on hard work, building the right culture and winning trophies.”

Recall that Alonso spent five years in the Premier League with Liverpool, helping them win the Champions League in 2005, and also played for Real Sociedad, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.