Xabi Alonso has been named Chelsea’s next head coach, signing a four-year deal that starts on 1 July 2026, as the club reacts to an underperforming season and seeks stability after several managerial changes and a damaging FA Cup final defeat.

The 44-year-old replaces an interim structure that followed the January exit of Enzo Maresca and the April dismissal of Liam Rosenior, with Calum McFarlane still without a Premier League win during a turbulent campaign that also leaves European qualification at risk.

Chelsea confirms that Alonso will officially take charge in July, with the agreement keeping Alonso at Stamford Bridge for four years. The move follows reports, emerging after the FA Cup loss to Manchester City at Wembley, that Alonso had already accepted the job.

Alonso described the scale of the challenge and status of the club in clear terms, saying: “Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in world football and it fills me with immense pride to become manager of this great club.”

Alonso stressed that discussions with Chelsea’s leadership aligned on long-term aims. “From my conversations with the ownership group and sporting leadership, it is clear we share the same ambition. We want to build a team capable of competing consistently at the highest level and fighting for trophies.”

Alonso also highlighted the strength of the current group and the work ahead. “There is great talent in the squad and huge potential at this football club and it will be my great honour to lead it. Now the focus is on hard work, building the right culture and winning trophies.”