Chelsea has hired Xabi Alonso as manager on a four-year contract, effective July 1. The Spaniard replaces Liam Rosenior, becoming the fifth permanent coach under owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital since 2022.
Alonso, a former Bayern Leverkusen title winner, lasted just eight months at Real Madrid before leaving by mutual consent in January amid reports of infighting. Chelsea described him as “one of the most respected figures in the modern game.”
“We want to build a team capable of competing consistently at the highest level and fighting for trophies,” Alonso said.
Chelsea hasn’t won a domestic trophy in eight years, was eliminated from next season’s Champions League, and lost to Manchester City in the FA Cup final. The club has posted record pre-tax losses of $350 million, with total spending near $2.5 billion under Boehly.