Story perspectives

Xabi Alonso to Lead Chelsea, Targets Mbappé, Overhauls Squad

5/26/2026

Summary

Alonso Joins Chelsea

Xabi Alonso will become Chelsea manager on July 1 and plans a summer squad overhaul.
Alonso offered £40 million for Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, who United will not sell.
Mainoo signed a new contract in late April, calling United his “home.”
Chelsea discussed signing Aston Villa forward Morgan Rogers and is tipped for Kylian Mbappé.
BlueCo said the club will target ready-made players while maintaining a youth-focused policy for 2026-27.

Summary

Fofana Red-Carded

Wesley Fofana received a red card on the final day, sparking criticism of his fit with Conor Colwill.
Chelsea's recent signings—Liam Delap (£30 million), Malo Gusto (£30.7 million), Filip Jorgensen (£20.7 million) and Benoît Badiashile (£35 million)—have seen limited play, with Delap's debut season tough, Gusto unused since Maresca left, Jorgensen restricted to cup matches and possibly off-loaded, and Badiashile competing with Trevoh Chalobah and Josh Acheampong.

History

Historical Context

After Roman Abramovich bought Chelsea in June 2003, he injected roughly £100 million before the 2004-05 season, enabling José Mourinho to win back-to-back Premier League titles (2004-05, 2005-06) and multiple cups. The club’s 2024 overhaul follows that same investment-heavy blueprint.

1 of 3

Alonso Joins Chelsea

Xabi Alonso will become Chelsea manager on July 1 and plans a summer squad overhaul.
Alonso offered £40 million for Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, who United will not sell.
Mainoo signed a new contract in late April, calling United his “home.”
Chelsea discussed signing Aston Villa forward Morgan Rogers and is tipped for Kylian Mbappé.
BlueCo said the club will target ready-made players while maintaining a youth-focused policy for 2026-27.

1 / 3