While Xabi Alonso would undoubtedly be a popular choice among the Stamford Bridge faithful, it doesn’t look as if he’s in the thinking of the Chelsea owners.
Xabi Alonso is currently one of the most sought-after free agents in world football after his short spell as Real Madrid manager came to an abrupt end in January.
Following his historic, unbeaten domestic double with Bayer Leverkusen in 2024, Alonso moved to the Bernabeu last June, where he maintained a stellar 70.6% win rate but ultimately fell victim to the club’s cut-throat standards after falling behind Barcelona in the title race.
Liverpool looked like he could replace Arne Slot in the summer, which was his most likely destination given his allegiance to the Reds, but that doesn’t look like happening anymore.
And with Chelsea on the hunt for a new manager, there could be an opportunity.
Would you have taken John Terry as the new Chelsea boss?🤔
Chelsea owners reject John Terry
Photo by Crystal Pix/MB Media/Getty Images
Chelsea are not considering Xabi Alonso
According to BBC Sport, Xabi Alonso would be a popular pick with supporters, but they do not know of him being an option at this stage.
Chelsea have made it clear for a preference of premier league experience with players this summer, and it would not be surprise me if the same applied to the new manager search.
Eddie Howe cannot be ruled out, alongside options like Andoni Iraola and Marco Silva.
Name the ONE player you want to see given a chance against Leeds United 👀
Manchester City v Chelsea - Premier League
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
How Chelsea would look under Xabi Alonso
Under Xabi Alonso, Chelsea would likely adopt a highly structured, possession-based 3-4-2-1 system that focuses on midfield dominance and moving the ball through the middle.
Drawing from his success at Leverkusen, Alonso favors inverted tens who operate in the half-spaces, creating a narrow, attacking shape that forces defenders out of position. This brand of football prioritises ball retention and patience, with wing-backs providing the width to stretch play.
Defensively, the Blues would transition into a compact mid-block, utilising a high defensive line and aggressive counter-pressing to maintain control, trading the chaos we saw under Liam Rosenior for a proven identity.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox