Xabi Alonso leading three-way race for vacant Chelsea job | OneFootball

Chelsea look to be wrapping up their search for a permanent manager, with Xabi Alonso emerging as the club’s preferred candidate.

The iPaper reports that the Blues have drawn up a three-man shortlist to replace Liam Rosenior, but Alonso is understood to be leading the race to become the new head coach.

The former Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid manager is also believed to be open to the move despite the difficulties faced by previous Chelsea managers.

Enzo Maresca decided to step away from his role after falling out with the Chelsea owners, while Rosenior was sent packing when the campaign went pear-shaped.

Chelsea are also considering other options, including Fulham’s Marco Silva and Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola, who is set to be a free agent this summer.

Como manager Cesc Fabregas has also been linked with the vacant role, but the former Chelsea midfielder is expected to remain with the Serie A overachievers for at least another season.

According to Sky Sports, Chelsea want their new manager in place by the middle of next month.

He’s expected to play a massive role in the club’s transfer plans this summer and have greater authority over which players come into the club.

That lack of a greater voice and authority is understood to be the reason behind Maresca’s abrupt departure after four years at the club.

He had several disagreements with senior figures over transfers and squad planning.

Rosenior was brought in from RC Strasbourg solely because of his close ties with the BlueCo system, and it reportedly affected his authority in the dressing room.

Chelsea are now more willing to hand more influence to an experienced figure with a stronger reputation.

Alonso would likely expect that level of authority before agreeing to take the position, especially with the club facing a major rebuild this summer.

The situation on the pitch has also increased the pressure.

Chelsea are dealing with uncertainty around key players including Enzo Fernandez and Cole Palmer, while missing out on Champions League football could have financial consequences for senior members of the squad.

The Blues can still end the season with a title as they face Manchester City in the FA Cup final. But there’s a growing feeling that the club can’t afford another disappointing campaign.