Chelsea are set to appoint a new permanent head coach after dismissing Liam Rosenior in April 2026, marking their fifth managerial change since BlueCo's takeover in 2022 [1]. Rosenior's tenure lasted 106 days before Chelsea opted for a period of "self-reflection to make the right long-term appointment," the club confirmed [1].
In the interim, Calum McFarlane is managing the team until the end of the season [2, 1]. The club is now focusing on leading candidates Xabi Alonso and Andoni Iraola, though no final decision has been made [2, 3, 1]. Chelsea have also considered other names such as Fulham's Marco Silva, Crystal Palace's Oliver Glasner, and former Flamengo manager Filipe Luís [2, 3, 1].
Alonso, 44, recently left Real Madrid in January 2026 after managing 34 games and previously won the Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen in 2024 [2, 3, 1]. Chelsea view him as a good fit for their young squad and believe his stature commands respect in the dressing room [2, 3]. Alonso has sought assurances regarding influence over player signings, which Chelsea's recruitment structure of five sporting directors would accommodate by deferring to his preferences if appointed [3].
Iraola, 43, has been Bournemouth's manager since June 2023 and plans to depart at season end [2, 1]. His Bournemouth side is noted for a physical and intense playing style, a trait Chelsea find appealing as they seek to increase their team's physicality [2].
Chelsea currently trail Bournemouth by 10 points for a Champions League qualifying spot and sit 4 points behind seventh-placed Brighton for Conference League qualification [1]. The club aims to strengthen performance under their new coach.
Optimism surrounds talks with Alonso’s camp after progress from May 9 to 14 in negotiations [2, 3, 1]. Alonso had also been linked with Liverpool, but Chelsea believe Liverpool will retain Arne Slot in the near term [2]. Crystal Palace’s Oliver Glasner is expected to leave after the Conference League final later this month, adding to available options [2, 3].
Chelsea face Manchester City in the FA Cup final on May 17, 2026, after which the club is expected to accelerate the head coach appointment process [3].
