Chelsea's search for a new manager is heating up, and the Blues are leaving no stone unturned. According to exclusive claims from The Independent's Miguel Delaney, former Barcelona boss Xavi Hernandez is now "under consideration" to take the reins at Stamford Bridge this summer.

The reasoning? Chelsea believe they've made "significant progress in instilling a football identity," and they see Xavi as a manager who aligns perfectly with that vision. For a club that's struggled to find consistency since Todd Boehly's takeover, this move signals a shift toward a more defined style of play—something fans have been craving.

But let's be real: if you've watched Chelsea lose six Premier League games in a row, you might be scratching your head about what that identity actually is. The Blues have been a rollercoaster this season, and the lack of clarity on the pitch has been a major talking point among supporters.

Xavi brings a lot to the table. He's a Champions League-winning midfielder and a respected figure in world football—qualities that could command respect in the dressing room. However, he falls short in one key area: Premier League experience. Neither as a player nor as a coach has he navigated the unique challenges of English football, which could be a gamble for a club in transition.

There's also the question of whether Xavi would thrive in Chelsea's current setup. With five sporting directors heavily involved in first-team matters, the managerial role at Stamford Bridge is less about total control and more about collaboration. That might not sit well with a coach used to having the final say, especially after his time at Barcelona where he had significant influence over squad decisions.

Meanwhile, interim boss Calum McFarlane hasn't been able to provide the answers fans are looking for. Cole Palmer's form has dipped dramatically over the past 12 months, and while his talent is undeniable, the lack of viable alternatives has made it hard to justify dropping him. It's a symptom of a deeper issue: a squad that's still finding its feet under new ownership.

As Chelsea's managerial search continues, one thing is clear: the next appointment will be crucial in defining the club's direction. Whether Xavi is the man to lead that charge remains to be seen, but it's a storyline worth watching for any Blues fan eager for a return to glory.