Liverpool take note: "Xabi Alonso" opens up for the first time, revealing 3 reasons for accepting the Chelsea manager position.
On 17 May 2026, Xabi Alonso, the 44-year-old Spanish coach and former player for Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, spoke openly for the first time after being appointed as Chelsea's new manager under a 4-year contract, with plans to start on 1 July.
Xabi Alonso revealed three reasons for deciding to manage the "Blues": "Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in world football, and I am truly proud to be the manager of such a great club."
"From discussions with the ownership group and sports executives, it is clear that we share the same goal. We want to build a team capable of consistently competing at the highest level and fighting for trophies."
"This team has very talented players with enormous potential, and it will be a great honor for me to lead this team. Right now, the goal is to work hard, build the right culture, and win trophies."
This season, Chelsea ended without any trophies after losing 0-1 to Manchester City in the FA Cup final last night, contrasting with last season under coach Enzo Maresca, who won both the UEFA Conference League and the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.