Official: Xabi Alonso is Chelsea's New Manager

Chelsea has officially announced Xabi Alonso as the club's new manager. The Spaniard will take the helm on July 1st, signing a four-year deal. He emerged as the top candidate for the coveted position at Stamford Bridge in recent weeks, especially after it became clear that Liverpool, who were also linked with Alonso following the Real Madrid specialist's departure, would continue with Arne Slot.

The former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen head coach becomes Chelsea's fifth permanent manager under the BlueCo ownership, following Graham Potter, Mauricio Pochettino, Enzo Maresca, and Liam Rosenior. Callum MacFarlane is currently serving as interim manager until the end of the season.

Although he officially assumes the role on July 1st, Alonso will immediately begin working with the club's hierarchy on summer transfer plans.

"Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in world football, and I am incredibly proud to become the manager of this great club. From my discussions with the ownership group and sporting directors, it's clear we share the same ambition. We want to build a team capable of consistently competing at the highest level and challenging for trophies. There is immense talent and huge potential within the squad, and it will be a great honor for me to lead them. My focus now will be on hard work, building the right culture, and winning trophies," Alonso stated on the club's website.

The Spaniard returns to English football, having played 210 matches for Liverpool between 2004 and 2009.