As Chelsea's search for a permanent manager heats up, Xabi Alonso has emerged as the frontrunner—but the Spanish tactician wants more than just a seat in the Stamford Bridge dugout. The former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen boss, known for his sharp football mind and calm demeanor, is reportedly seeking assurances that he can build a long-term project at the club.

Talks have progressed over the past week, with Alonso seeing plenty of appeal in the role. According to sources, he believes Chelsea's current squad aligns well with his preferred playing style and philosophy. However, after leaving a Real Madrid role earlier this year that was complicated by player power and structural issues, the 44-year-old is understandably cautious about repeating that experience.

While Chelsea today is a vastly different environment, Alonso's camp remains wary of the club's recent track record with managers. The short tenures of Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior have raised eyebrows, and Alonso wants clarity on how much control he'll have to shape the team's identity. Chelsea, for their part, point to unique circumstances surrounding those departures.

This development comes amid reports that Liverpool—where Alonso enjoyed legendary status as a player—has not reached out to him and plans to stick with Arne Slot. That leaves the door wide open for Chelsea, but Alonso's conditions could prove pivotal in negotiations.

Meanwhile, interim boss Calum McFarlane will lead Chelsea into Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley. The result will not only decide silverware but also shape Chelsea's European ambitions. Currently sitting ninth in the Premier League, the Blues need a win to secure Europa League football. A loss would leave them relying on other results to snatch a Conference League spot, with Tottenham and Sunderland still to play.

For Chelsea fans, this manager search is more than a headline—it's a signal of the club's direction. Will Alonso be the steady hand to guide this talented but unpredictable squad? The answer may depend on how much freedom he's given to build his vision.