Chelsea FC have appointed Xabi Alonso as their new team manager on a four-year contract, with the Spaniard set to officially begin his tenure on July 1, 2026.
The Premier League club confirmed the decision as part of what it described as the next phase of its long-term project at Stamford Bridge, following a challenging 2025/26 campaign marked by managerial instability.
Alonso expressed pride at taking charge of one of world football’s most prestigious clubs, stressing that he shares the club’s ambition of competing consistently for major honours.
“Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in world football, and it fills me with immense pride to become manager of this great club,” Alonso said.
“From my conversations with the ownership group and sporting leadership, it is clear we share the same ambition. We want to build a team capable of competing consistently at the highest level and fighting for trophies.”
The former midfielder also highlighted the potential within the current squad and emphasised the importance of building a strong culture for sustained success.
“There is great talent in the squad and huge potential at this football club, and it will be my great honour to lead it. Now the focus is on hard work, building the right culture and winning trophies,” he added.
Chelsea described Alonso as “an outstanding football coach” and “a proven leader,” praising his tactical intelligence, leadership qualities, and football philosophy as key reasons behind his appointment.
The club added that it looks forward with confidence to working with him as they aim to restore stability and return to sustained success at Stamford Bridge.
