Following their disappointing Emirates FA Cup final defeat to Manchester City, Chelsea FC has announced signing of Xabi Alonso as its new manager.

Chelsea’s board soul-searching has clearly led to the realization that enormous administrative and sporting mistakes have been made.

Notoriously known for controlling footballing decisions, the board is expected to grant Alonso a bit of autonomy for sporting decisions unlike past head coaches since Clearlake Capital took reins from Roman Abramovich.

The Blues are looking to rebuild their young squad and compete for trophies after a dismal display in the season so far, failing to qualify for any European competition.

Questions arose following the shocking sacking of Enzo Maresca, who won two major honours for the club— UEFA Conference League Cup and FIFA Club World Cup.

Matters at the club became worse when the young slightly inexperienced coach Liam Rosenior was brought in as a replacement. The players were clearly not enthused by his brand of football.

Xabi Alonso is expected to begin work on July 1, 2026, after signing a four-year deal.