Xabi Alonso announced as new Chelsea manager, to take charge from July 1

Chelsea have appointed Xabi Alonso as manager on a four-year contract from July 1, 2026. The move comes after FA Cup final pain and a season that leaves them outside Europe.

In Short

• Alonso will officially begin work at Stamford Bridge from July 1
• Chelsea handed the Spaniard a four-year contract for the rebuild
• The appointment followed their FA Cup final defeat to Manchester City

Chelsea have announced the signing of former Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso as their new manager for the upcoming 2026-27 season on Sunday, May 17. Alonso joins on a four-year contract and will take charge from July 1 at Stamford Bridge.

The decision comes right after the Blues suffered FA Cup final heartbreak against Manchester City, meaning that they will not be part of any European competitions next year. Alonso has been without a job since he was sacked as the Real Madrid manager earlier in the year in January.

"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 fouryear contract at Stamford Bridge," read the statement from Chelsea.

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