Xabi Alonso 'waiting' for Liverpool U-turn after Chelsea open talks to become next manager

In partnership with

Evening Standard

·13 maggio 2026

Xabi Alonso 'waiting' for Liverpool U-turn after Chelsea open talks to become next manager

Spaniard is open to the prospect of working at Stamford Bridge, but has made his preference clear

Xabi Alonso is “thinking” about Liverpool after emerging as a leading candidate to become the next Chelsea manager.

OneFootball Video

That is according to The i Paper, who claim Alonso is stalling on the Chelsea job in case a vacancy at former club Liverpool opens up at the end of the season.

While it has been widely claimed that Arne Slot will still be Liverpool head coach for the start of the 2026-27 campaign, the aforementioned report states the Spaniard is willing to wait and see if the situation changes.

A return to Anfield is said to be Alonso’s preferred destination as he bids to make a managerial comeback after being sacked by Real Madrid at the beginning of the year.

“This professional chapter comes to an end, and it didn’t turn out the way we would have liked,” he wrote on social media. “Coaching Real Madrid has been an honor and a responsibility.

“I thank the club, the players, and above all the fans and Madridismo for their trust and support. I leave with respect, gratitude, and the pride of having done my very best.”

Xabi Alonso is an option to succeed Liam Rosenior at Chelsea

Getty Images

Standard Sport understands that Chelsea are considering between five and six candidates to succeed Liam Rosenior as manager and are confident that an appointment will be made before the middle of June.

Fulham boss Marco Silva and soon-to-be ex-Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner are among the options, while former Chelsea left-back and ex-Flamengo head coach Filipe Luis has admirers within the club.

However, Alonso and Andoni Iraola - who is already confirmed to be leaving Bournemouth at the end of the season - are emerging as the leading candidates with the club holding talks with the pair.

Alonso enjoyed an illustrious playing career with Liverpool, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Spain, and it is thought he would command instant respect from Chelsea’s young squad.