Report: What Chelsea players are looking for in next head coach amid Xabi Alonso links

May 15, 2026 · Yahoo Sports

Chelsea’s players believe the next head coach must be someone who can command the respect of the dressing room and keep egos in check according to reports.

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Having sacked Liam Rosenior last month, less than four months after appointing him, the Blues find themselves yet again searching for another head coach.

Rosenior became the second head coach to leave Stamford Bridge this season following Enzo Maresca’s departure in January.

Xabi Alonso fits the bill for Chelsea players as next head coach

Chelsea are believed to want their next head coach in place before the start of the World Cup next month, with there said to be a shortlist of five of six names.

Alonso is said to be the preferred candidate, with Andoni Iraoloa thought to be a strong contender, with both men represented by the same agency.

Chelsea have reportedly also made checks on Marco Silva, Oliver Glasner and Filipe Luis, but they aren’t thought to feature highly in the club’s thinking right now.

The Blues are said to have held positive conversations with Alonso, and The Guardian have reported Chelsea’s players feel the next head coach must be someone who commands respect and can keep egos in check.

The report adds Alonso seems to fit the bill, given what he’s achieved as a player and in his short managerial career so far.

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