Big changes are brewing at Stamford Bridge, and the rumor mill is already heating up. According to recent reports, Xabi Alonso has emerged as Chelsea's early preferred choice to become the club's next head coach—but whether the Blues can actually convince the Spanish tactician to take the reins remains a major question mark.
This latest managerial search comes after the club parted ways with Liam Rosenior last month, making him the second head coach to leave Chelsea this season following Enzo Maresca's departure back in January. With Calum McFarlane currently holding down the fort as interim manager, Chelsea's sporting directors are working through a shortlist that reportedly includes seven or eight candidates.
While Bournemouth's Andoni Iraola has been considered an early frontrunner, and Fulham's Marco Silva has also been linked, it's Alonso who has reportedly captured the club's attention. David Ornstein has indicated that an appointment is expected early in the summer, and Mail Sport has now confirmed that Alonso sits at the top of Chelsea's wishlist.
For those who may have missed it, Alonso is currently out of work after being dismissed by Real Madrid earlier this season. However, his credentials are hard to ignore. The former midfielder enjoyed a truly remarkable spell at Bayer Leverkusen, where he guided the German side to a historic league and cup double—completing an entire domestic season unbeaten. That kind of pedigree is exactly what Chelsea's hierarchy is looking for as they aim to restore stability and success to the club.
The big question now is whether Alonso sees Stamford Bridge as the right next step for his career. The Blues will need to put together a compelling pitch if they hope to land their top target.
In the meantime, all eyes remain on McFarlane, who recently hinted that Levi Colwill could start in the FA Cup final following an impressive performance against Liverpool. Colwill's first start of the season at Anfield brought an immediate improvement to Chelsea's defense and build-up play—a positive sign as the club navigates this transitional period.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops. Whether you're backing Alonso or rooting for another candidate, one thing is certain: the next few weeks will be crucial in shaping Chelsea's future on the pitch.