Xabi Alonso is reportedly “open to the possibility” of becoming the next Chelsea manager.
The Spaniard is currently out of work after parting ways with Real Madrid in January, a day after the team lost to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final. He lasted just seven months in the role.
The Blues are searching for a new head coach after sacking Liam Rosenior in April.
Xabi Alonso ‘open’ to becoming next Chelsea manager
According to The Athletic, Chelsea are “exploring a deal” to appoint Alonso as manager ahead of next season.
Alonso is open to taking over at Stamford Bridge, but no decision has been made as the “process continues”.
Andoni Iraola is also a “strong contender” for the job. The Basque native is set to leave Bournemouth when his contract expires this summer.
Alonso has also been linked with Liverpool, but the Reds will reportedly retain Arne Slot as manager after guiding the club to UEFA Champions League qualification.
The 44-year-old began his coaching career with Real Sociedad’s B team before taking his first senior role at Bayer Leverkusen in 2022. He enjoyed a successful three-year stint with the German outfit, going unbeaten domestically in his second season to win the Bundesliga and German Cup double. Leverkusen also reached the UEFA Europa League final, which they lost to Atalanta in Dublin.
Alonso last summer returned to Real Madrid, where he won the UEFA Champions League as a player, but only last seven months in the hot seat.
