Chelsea’s Search for a New Manager
Chelsea have begun exploring potential candidates to appoint as their new manager at the end of the season. The club is also keeping an eye on several other options, aiming to make a well-considered decision that aligns with their long-term vision.
One of the names on their shortlist is Xabi Alonso, who was recently sacked by Real Madrid in January after just six months in charge. He had previously taken over from Bayer Leverkusen, where he led them to a perfect Bundesliga campaign in the 2023-24 season without a single loss. However, his tenure at Real Madrid did not go as planned, and he has since been free to negotiate with new clubs.
Alonso has been linked with Liverpool, but there are no indications that a position at Anfield is currently available. Despite this, the Blues have shown interest in him, and he is considered a top priority for the club.
Other Potential Candidates
In addition to Alonso, Chelsea’s shortlist includes several other names. Andoni Iraola and Marco Silva have both been mentioned as potential candidates. More recently, Oliver Glasner has also entered the picture.
Glasner is currently set to leave Crystal Palace at the end of the season after a successful tenure. His time at Palace has been historic, with notable achievements such as winning the FA Cup last season by defeating Manchester City in the final. This was the club’s first-ever major trophy. He then added a Community Shield victory over Liverpool at the start of the season.
Glasner’s future with Palace has been discussed for some time, and while the club is still considering its next steps, it is clear that his reputation has grown significantly. He was even linked with taking over at Bayern Munich before they appointed Vincent Kompany in the summer of 2024. A move to Chelsea could be a logical next step for him.
Former Players in the Mix
Other names being considered include former Chelsea players Cesc Fabregas and Felipe Luis. Fabregas has had a successful stint at Como in Italy, while Felipe Luis, who played for Chelsea between 2014 and 2015, retired from professional football in 2023.
Luis was appointed by Flamengo in Brazil in 2024 and won the Copa do Brasil. He later claimed the 2025 Copa Libertadores before leaving his role earlier this year.
A Disciplined Approach
Sources close to the club have emphasized that Chelsea is taking a disciplined approach in selecting the right long-term manager. They are looking for a head coach who shares the club’s vision, can develop the squad, and deliver consistent performances and results.
The question remains whether Chelsea can convince Alonso that they are the right fit for him. However, it now seems increasingly likely that he could be the preferred choice.
Final Steps
Chelsea plans to name Rosenior’s successor once this season concludes. The club aims to have a new manager in place by mid-June, ensuring a smooth transition for the upcoming season.
With several strong candidates on the list, including Alonso, Glasner, and others, the club is in a good position to make a strategic decision that will benefit the team in the long run.
