Chelsea are closing in on bringing Xabi Alonso to the Stamford Bridge dugout, as talks advance with the former Real Madrid boss.
Chelsea’s managerial search could reach a swift conclusion in the coming period, as Xabi Alonso seems close to taking over. As per Football Insider, the 44-year-old former Real Madrid manager is now advancing in talks to manage the Blues, who appear to have warded off competition from domestic rivals in the process.
Chelsea have endured a difficult season all around, which could still offer some relief should they win the FA Cup on Saturday. However, their decision-making on multiple fronts has come under massive scrutiny, particularly on the managerial front, which has not only affected them but also sister club Strasbourg.
Following Liam Rosenior’s dismissal after a short stint at the club, Chelsea have been looking at several managers, such as Andoni Iraola and Xabi Alonso. It appears they have stepped up talks to sign the latter, and the move now seems close to completion, with the two parties in advanced talks to reach an agreement.
Is Xabi Alonso the right man for Chelsea?
Chelsea had competition in place for Alonso, but they have convinced the 44-year-old former Real Madrid manager to take over. As for the prospective appointment itself, it is a step in the right direction for the Blues to bring in a high-calibre manager to the helm and hand over the keys for a long-term project. The Spaniard has been out of a job since being dismissed from the Bernabeu last year.
Alonso has proved himself by winning the Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen, but he has also failed to get things moving at Real Madrid. He is a man in demand in the managerial market, but Chelsea appears to have taken decisive steps towards bringing him in, and on paper, the Spaniard is probably the best possible option available at the moment.
Why did the competition back away?
There were heavy links to the former side Liverpool, and as per Talk Sport, Alonso would have loved to take over the Anfield role. The Merseyside giants are leaning towards keeping Arne Slot and handing him another season to prove his worth, which has ruled out any move for their former midfielder to take over the dugout.
Newcastle United were also linked with Alonso, but David Ornstein recently confirmed they are set to stick with Eddie Howe despite a disappointing season at St James’ Park. Among the two clubs keen on Alonso, Liverpool may have had a bigger chance, but their indecision with Slot has led to Chelsea benefiting, as they have been more decisive in their pursuit.