Story perspectives

Chelsea Target Xabi Alonso as Coach Amid Champions League Miss

5/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Chelsea have named Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso as their head-coach candidate with greater recruitment control.
Alonso, who guided Bayer Leverkusen to a double in 2024, wants to return to management this summer.
Enzo Fernández and Cole Palmer risk missing bonuses as Chelsea will miss next season’s Champions League.
Chelsea’s bid for striker Elliot Anderson is seen as unrealistic before the FA Cup final against Manchester City.

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Story summary

Chelsea have named Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso as their head-coach candidate with greater recruitment control.
Alonso, who guided Bayer Leverkusen to a double in 2024, wants to return to management this summer.
Enzo Fernández and Cole Palmer risk missing bonuses as Chelsea will miss next season’s Champions League.
Chelsea’s bid for striker Elliot Anderson is seen as unrealistic before the FA Cup final against Manchester City.