Judging by the reports that have come out over the last few days, it is quite clear that Chelsea view Xabi Alonso as the first-choice to become the next manager of the club. After the disappointments of the past four seasons, BlueCo will know that they need to get this next appointment correct. Out of the names that have been linked with the job, the Spaniard looks like the best fit.
Alonso has proven that he can win things with a young squad. He did that at Bayer Leverkusen. Also, he has the experience of managing a top club like Real Madrid. Many might consider his spell there as a failure. But considering the things that have emerged out of Santiago Bernabeu in recent months, he might have actually been doing a great job.
One thing that Liam Rosenior was never able to do was command the respect of the Chelsea squad. That goes a long way for a manager. Will Alonso face such problems? Remember, there were rumours of dressing room issues being the main reason behind his early departure from Real Madrid.
What do Chelsea’s players think about the club hiring Xabi Alonso?
Fortunately, it looks like the Spaniard won’t face any such problems at Stamford Bridge, at least in the beginning. According to The Guardian, Chelsea’s players believe that Alonso is the ideal candidate to become their next head coach.
The report states that the feeling in the Chelsea dressing room is that Alonso is the man to get the team back on track. Talks are believed to be moving in the right direction with the Spaniard’s camp. The situation is expected to accelerate after the FA Cup final against Manchester City.
That update will be music to the ears of the fans. But it is important to remember that nothing is done and dusted yet.
Things can change quickly in football. Alonso is the frontrunner. But Chelsea are continuing to monitor other candidates as well. That is only natural. If the Spaniard turns the chance down, they need to be ready to move on quickly to the next best option rather than start from ground zero.
Would Alonso be the right choice for Chelsea?
If Alonso does end up getting appointed, it has the potential to be an excellent addition. For the first time, Chelsea fans might actually be excited for an appointment in the BlueCo era.
The previous four appointments were Graham Potter, Mauricio Pochettino, Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior. Three of those four had never managed at the highest level. And the Argentine was not the most popular choice due to his history with Tottenham Hotspur.
Of course, Alonso used to play for Liverpool as well. Incidentally, the Reds could still play a factor if they decide to sack Arne Slot at the end of the season. But most reliable outlets have suggested that they do not plan to do that, boosting Chelsea’s chances of landing the Spanish manager’s signature this summer in the process.
