The media’s tone around the Xabi Alonso to Chelsea situation has certainly changed a lot over the last few days. Initially, there was a lot of scepticism about whether a move could happen or not. Andoni Iraola and Marco Silva, perhaps even Cesc Fabregas, were viewed as realistic targets while the former Real Madrid boss was seen as someone who would be a dream acquisition but perhaps too hard to pull off.
In some ways, that view on the matter did make sense. Yes, Chelsea are one of the most successful football clubs of the 21st century. But the majority of that success came under different ownership.
Since the BlueCo takeover, one could argue that Chelsea have been the worst run club in world football. They spent well north of a billion pounds and have not even competed for a major trophy in four years. Let that sink in.
It is very clear that the model needs to change. Fortunately, it looks like BlueCo might be realising that as well. It has been suggested that they are ready to hand more control to Alonso over football matters in order to convince him. But there could still be one hurdle on their path. Or is there?
David Ornstein’s update on Liverpool makes Xabi Alonso chase easier for Chelsea
In the eyes of many, Liverpool would be a more logical destination for Alonso this summer than Chelsea. He enjoyed legendary status there as a player, having won the Champions League with them. And if the club decide to part with Arne Slot, they will be looking for a manager as well.
It is believed that Liverpool had tried to bring in Alonso before they went for Slot. But now, it looks like they are ready to stick with the Dutchman, even though a large section of their fanbase already seem to have lost their trust in him.
As reported by CFCDaily on X, David Orstein said while speaking on the situation on NBC Sports:
“My information is that Xabi Alonso is NOT under consideration at Liverpool AT ALL and that Liverpool fully intend to go into next season with Arne Slot as their head coach.”
BlueCo need to convince Alonso that Chelsea’s the place to be
Now, it looks like it is down to BlueCo to convince Alonso that Chelsea is the place to be. In the past, we have seen them being linked with key managers, including Luis Enrique, only to not complete a deal.
Things need to change. BlueCo need to realise that any top manager will want more control. And considering the situation that the club finds itself in, they have a ton of leverage as well. That is a corner the ownership have painted themselves into, nobody else.
Alonso needs to be assured that he will be backed in the summer and then be done so. He also should be given a real say in what players are signed. They have gone this ‘multiple sporting directors’ route for long enough and it simply has not worked out. The time for change is here and it should start with the Spaniard. In short, BlueCo needs to hand him the keys to the kingdom and hope he leads them back to the crown.
