Xabi Alonso agrees to become Chelsea manager

Xabi Alonso agrees to become Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has reached an agreement with Chelsea to become their new manager, Hayters understands. Alonso was Chelsea’s number one target after sacking Liam Rosenior, and sources close to Chelsea have confirmed the 44-year-old has agreed terms to take over next season. A key distinction from previous figures in the dugout at Chelsea is that Alonso will be given the title ‘manager’, instead of ‘head coach’.

This suggests Alonso will have more power at the club, and a broader remit. Other names in consideration were Andoni Iraola of Bournemouth and Fulham’s Marco Silva, but Chelsea always saw Alonso as their main target.