There is little doubt that Xabi Alonso is one of the best options out there, if not the very best, when it comes to the choices available to Chelsea for their next managerial appointment. Other names like Andoni Iraola and Marco Silva have been constantly linked with the Blues as well over the last few weeks. But they do not have the top-level experience or winning track record that the former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen boss does.
Of course, that means that it would be more difficult for Chelsea to convince him. And Arne Slot’s situation at Liverpool is worth keeping an eye on as well, although reliable sources have suggested that the Reds are not looking to make a managerial change.
Coming back to Alonso, it looks like Chelsea are already in talks with his camp over a move. Now, there is a very positive update on the situation.
Long-term project and contract for Xabi Alonso?
According to Nicolo Schira, positive first talks were held this week between Chelsea and Alonso, who could become the club’s new manager. The Spanish coach has given his availability for a long-term project and contract. There are still other candidates in the Blues’ shortlist. Reflections are underway.
So far, that is the most positive update that we have received when it comes to the Alonso situation. Obviously, it remains to be seen how accurate the information is.
One cannot ignore though, that the noise around the Alonso to Chelsea situation is starting to grow. Is it because a move is legitimately getting closer? Or is it just media talk with little substance behind it?
Alonso could be perfect for Chelsea
In many ways, out of the names out there, Alonso would be the best fit for this Chelsea team. He has already shown that he can rebuild a squad and win with it.
He did that at Bayer Leverkusen. The Spaniard came into a team that was a relegation contender. He steadied the ship and finished sixth. The following year, they won the invincible double in Germany and were a final away from winning the Europa League as well. If given the right backing and enough control, perhaps he could pull off something similar at Chelsea on a larger scale.
Of course, it did not go according to plan at Real Madrid. But things have only gotten worse for them since he left. Alonso was clearly not the problem there.
