After a second round of talks with Xabi Alonso and Chelsea, things are starting to change on the managerial front as things become clear.
As of mid-May, Xabi Alonso is the standout candidate to replace Liam Rosenior at Chelsea. The club has already opened initial talks with Alonso’s representatives, which have been described as encouraging.
Alonso is currently a free agent after his seven-month spell at Real Madrid, with many believing he would end up at Liverpool up until they restored faith in Arne Slot.
Chelsea’s hierarchy is determined to finalise a permanent appointment before the World Cup begins, but the race is very much still open, with Alonso and Andoni Iraola the two names.
However, the picture is starting to become a little more clearer.
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Xabi Alonso is coming round to the idea of managing Chelsea
On TalkSPORT’s Premier League All Access podcast, Alex Crook gave an update on the Chelsea managerial situation.
He states that he’s been told about Alonso starting to gain more interest in the role at Stamford Bridge.
“Because it was only about a week ago that I was told that Xabi Alonso wasn’t completely convinced about this Chelsea project. But since Monday afternoon, when I got the nod that he’s actually coming around the idea, I think this one is accelerating.
“I think Xabi Alonso is the frontrunner, probably with Andoni Iraola in second place in that race.”
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A change in policy from the Chelsea owners?
After his recent stint at Real Madrid ended following reported friction over squad influence and dressing room dynamics, Alonso is making full control a non-negotiable part of negotiations.
To secure him, Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali appear to be loosening their grip. This could mark a departure from the restricted roles of previous managers like Enzo Maresca.
By granting Alonso authority over transfers and sporting strategy, the owners may be hoping that his know-how and managerial ability can finally stabilise their billion-pound project.
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