Chelsea are looking for a new permanent manager after the violent dismissal of Liam Rosenior last month. Rosenior’s rocky reign lasted just 107 days, leaving the Blues unable to secure European participation following a poor run of league performances. While interim manager Calum McFarlane is keeping the ship afloat until the end of the season and has a huge FA Cup final against Manchester City to look forward to, the club’s leadership is completely focused on the approaching summer overhaul.
Following the Rosenior incident, Chelsea’s ownership is presently in what is characterised as a “period of self-reflection”. They are desperate to find a coach whose tactical style is compatible with their football identity. According to talkSPORT, the Blues have contacted Xavi, the Spanish manager who led Barcelona to the La Liga victory in 2022-23.
Fabregas is not likely to quit his Como project this summer, as we previously reported. Meanwhile, departing Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola is well regarded by the board, but there are still fears that his particular tactical style may deviate too far from the club’s intended philosophy.
Xavi Hernández approached by Chelsea over managerial vacancy
According to Ben Jacobs, Xavi Hernandez’s team has leaked that he was approached by Chelsea about the looming vacancy at Stamford Bridge this summer. The Catalan coach wants to transfer to the Premier League at some time. Jacobs goes on to say that Chelsea does not want to engage additional negotiations with him while they investigate other possibilities.
Jacobs goes on to add that former Rayo Vallecano manager Andoni Iraola and former Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso are also in the running for the post. Iraola is expected to depart Bournemouth this summer, and despite ties with the previous club, Athletic Club, Edin Terzic has been named Ernesto Valverde’s replacement.
Alonso’s value remains high, and he has been linked with a transfer to Liverpool, having been contacted by the Reds before taking over Los Blancos. He is anticipated to receive offers to return to work whenever he wants, and Chelsea might be one of those options.
