Chelsea have confirmed the appointment of Xabi Alonso as their new manager at Stamford Bridge, set to take over on July 1, 2026.
The Blues made the announcement on the club's website and social media, describing him as "one of the most respected figures in the modern club".
On the club's X, Chelsea wrote: "Chelsea Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Xabi Alonso as Manager of the Men's Team.
"The Spaniard will begin his role on July 1, 2026, having agreed a four-year contract at Stamford Bridge. Welcome to Chelsea, Xabi!"
Chelsea have confirmed the appointment of Xabi Alonso as the new manager at Stamford Bridge
| PAThe 44-year-old had great success when managing Bayer Leverkusen in Germany, leading the Bundesliga side to its first-ever league title.
Leverkusen went undefeated in that campaign, which saw him secure a move to Real Madrid.
However, after seven months and a reported breakdown in player relationships, Alonso left the Spanish giants, now completing his move to West London.
Chelsea were full of praise for their new boss, describing him as a "proven leader and partner across several areas essential to the demands of driving the team".
Xabi Alonso won the domestic double at Bayer Leverkusen
| GETTYLATEST SPORTS NEWS
Alonso sent a message to Chelsea fans with the appointment, saying: "Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in world football, and it fills me with immense pride to become manager of this great club.
"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.
Xabi Alonso described Chelsea as 'one of the biggest clubs in world football'
| GETTY"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."
Chelsea described the appointment as a "hallmark of the club's history and future", saying it "reflects the club's belief in his broad set of experiences, coaching quality and game model, leadership attributes, character and integrity".
The appointment offers stability at Stamford Bridge, having suffered a very rocky spell since the start of spring.
Xabi Alonso said: 'The focus is on hard work, building the right culture and winning trophies'
|GETTY
With the sackings of both Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior, Calum McFarlane oversaw half a dozen games, including their FA Cup final defeat yesterday to Manchester City.
The timing of the announcement is key as Chelsea looks to turn a page on that loss and set their sights on next season.
It is unclear whether Alonso will be unveiled to the Blues' fans on Tuesday night in Chelsea's last home game of the season against bitter rivals Tottenham Hotspur.
But the news will be welcomed by supporters, with one of the most sought-after managers putting pen to paper at Stamford Bridge.
Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter