OffsAIde
·18 May 2026
Chelsea confirm Xabi Alonso as manager before Sunderland trip

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Yahoo sportsOffsAIde
·18 May 2026

Chelsea have confirmed Xabi Alonso as their new manager ahead of next weekend’s trip to Sunderland.
The club said in a statement that he will begin on the first of July, so interim head coach Calum McFarlane will oversee Tuesday’s home game against Tottenham Hotspur and next Sunday’s season-ending visit to the Stadium of Light.
Alonso, a former Spain international and ex-Liverpool midfielder, has agreed a four-year contract. The announcement comes in the aftermath of Saturday’s FA Cup final defeat against Manchester City.
The unveiling emphasised shared ambition to build a team capable of competing consistently at the highest level and fighting for trophies.
It also highlighted the talent and potential within the squad, alongside a focus on hard work and culture, with Alonso framed as a proven leader with a clear game model to drive the next phase.
Source: Sunderland Echo
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