Xabi Alonso hired by Chelsea on 4-year deal in return to coaching after Real Madrid disappointment
Chelsea has appointed Xabi Alonso as their new head coach on a four-year deal, marking his return to management after a brief and unsuccessful stint at Real Madrid. Alonso replaces Liam Rosenior, who was dismissed last month, becoming the fifth permanent coach under the club's current American ownership. Despite high ambitions, Chelsea faces challenges including likely absence from European competition and significant financial losses.
- ▪Xabi Alonso was hired by Chelsea on a four-year deal to become their new head coach.
- ▪Alonso previously managed Real Madrid for eight months before leaving by mutual consent due to poor results and locker room issues.
- ▪He led Bayer Leverkusen to a German title and an unbeaten domestic season in 2023-24.
- ▪Chelsea has spent around $2.5 billion on players since Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital took over in 2022.
- ▪The club made pre-tax losses of $350 million and is likely to miss European competition next season.
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