Chelsea Targets New Manager by Mid-Next Month

Chelsea's management aims to appoint a new permanent manager by mid-June, according to Sky Sports. Five to six names are currently under consideration, with Xabi Alonso, Andoni Iraola, and Marco Silva emerging as frontrunners. However, other clubs are also reportedly interested in these candidates.

Xavi Hernandez, Cesc Fàbregas, and Francesco Farioli were also rumored to be on the extended shortlist.

Currently, interim manager Callum MacFarlane's focus is on Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester City. A triumph in the tournament could prove to be the most direct route to European qualification. Otherwise, in the Premier League, the 'Blues from London' currently sit in ninth place, a full six points adrift of sixth position, which could offer a Champions League spot if Aston Villa wins the Europa League and finishes in the top five.