Chelsea Football Club have officially appointed former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso as the new manager of its men’s team.
The Spaniard will take charge at Stamford Bridge on July 1, 2026, after signing a four-year contract with the Premier League club.
Alonso arrives in London on the back of a historic spell with Bayer Leverkusen, where he guided the German side to their first-ever Bundesliga title, firmly establishing himself among Europe’s most highly regarded and progressive young coaches.
In a statement released on Sunday, Chelsea said his appointment reflects the club’s confidence in his tactical philosophy, leadership qualities, coaching methodology, and professional integrity.
Speaking on his appointment, Alonso said Chelsea’s ambition strongly aligns with his own vision for sustained success at the highest level.
“Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in world football, and it fills me with immense pride to become manager of this great club,” he 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.”
He added that he was eager to begin work, stressing both the potential within the squad and the standards expected at the club.
“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,” Alonso said.
Chelsea also described Alonso not only as an elite football coach but as a proven leader whose approach aligns with the club’s long-term sporting structure and objectives.
The club said it looks forward to a new era under his leadership, reiterating that success remains central to Chelsea’s identity and future ambitions.
