According to reports from multiple outlets, including coverage linked to The Athletic<\/a>, the former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen boss is open to a move to Stamford Bridge as Chelsea continue their search for a long-term manager.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Blues are also considering Andoni Iraola, but Alonso has quickly emerged as one of the standout candidates linked with the role.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Despite his difficult and short-lived spell at Real Madrid, Alonso\u2019s reputation in football remains extremely high.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Spanish tactician is still regarded as one of Europe\u2019s brightest managerial minds after his historic work with Bayer Leverkusen, where he guided the German club to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Under Alonso, Leverkusen transformed from an inconsistent side into one of Europe\u2019s most exciting tactical teams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n His calm leadership, tactical flexibility, and modern attacking football earned praise across the continent and made him one of the most sought-after young coaches in world football.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Alonso took over Leverkusen in October 2022 and completely changed the club\u2019s trajectory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n By the 2023\/24 season, Leverkusen had become nearly unstoppable, winning the Bundesliga unbeaten and lifting the DFB-Pokal to complete a historic domestic double.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Their unbeaten run stretched to more than 50 matches before eventually ending in the UEFA Europa League final against Atalanta.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In 2025, Alonso returned to Real Madrid as head coach, but his time at the Bernab\u00e9u lasted only a few months before both parties agreed to part ways in January 2026<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While results were mixed, many still believe his brief Madrid experience should not overshadow what he achieved in Germany.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Managing Real Madrid comes with enormous pressure, dressing-room politics, and expectations that can overwhelm even elite coaches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Chelsea\u2019s current situation may actually suit Alonso far better than Real Madrid did.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Blues possess one of the youngest squads in Europe, filled with technically gifted players capable of adapting to Alonso\u2019s tactical philosophy. Reports also suggest Alonso believes Chelsea\u2019s squad can fit his preferred system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Players like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n could thrive under Alonso\u2019s structured but fluid style of football.<\/p>\n\n\n\n His tactical systems \u2014 whether a 3-4-2-1 or 4-2-3-1 \u2014 rely heavily on intelligent midfield play, aggressive pressing, and dynamic wing-backs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Chelsea\u2019s squad profile appears naturally suited to that approach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, appointing Alonso would still carry risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Chelsea have already gone through multiple managerial changes in recent years, and the pressure at Stamford Bridge remains intense. The club needs stability, identity, and consistent progress \u2014 not another short-term experiment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Questions also remain about whether Alonso is ready for the relentless demands of the Premier League after his difficult Madrid spell.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But his achievements at Leverkusen suggest he has the tactical intelligence and leadership qualities required to rebuild Chelsea into a serious force again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While Alonso is generating the biggest headlines, Andoni Iraola remains a strong contender for the job.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Bournemouth boss has earned widespread praise for his aggressive pressing style and ability to maximize limited resources in the Premier League.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Chelsea are expected to carefully evaluate all candidates before making a final decision ahead of the 2026\/27 season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Chelsea\u2019s next managerial appointment could define the club\u2019s direction for years to come.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After another inconsistent campaign filled with pressure and uncertainty, the Blues desperately need a coach capable of building a winning identity while developing their young core.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Xabi Alonso\u2019s name certainly excites supporters \u2014 and his achievements already place him among football\u2019s most respected young managers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The big question now is whether Chelsea are ready to fully trust him with one of the biggest rebuilds in European football.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Want to cash in on the Champions League? BangBet Nigeria<\/a><\/strong> offers top-tier football odds, instant payouts, and a fast, seamless betting experience trusted by thousands of Nigerian punters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Visit BangBet<\/strong> today and bet on all football games with Nigeria\u2019s favourite sportsbook!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bet with Bangbet <\/a>\u2013 where unbeatable odds meet thrilling bonuses, free bets, and nonstop promos! We go beyond betting by offering expert predictions, helpful guides, and personalized support for your betting journey. At Bangbet<\/a>, it\u2019s more than a game \u2013 it\u2019s your ultimate betting experience, backed by care and confidence.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nWhy Chelsea Want Xabi Alonso<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Alonso\u2019s Record as a Manager<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Bayer Leverkusen Success<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Real Madrid Spell<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Xabi-x-Madrid-1024x683.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nIs Xabi Alonso the Right Man for Chelsea?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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The Risk Chelsea Must Consider<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Iraola Still in the Picture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Iraola-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nA Huge Decision for Chelsea\u2019s Future<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Bet Smarter with BangBet Nigeria<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
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