Chelsea Linked With Xabi Alonso As Next Head Coach
Chelsea are being linked with Xabi Alonso as the preferred option to take over, with a belief in the squad that his stature could steady the dressing room and help recruitment.
Chelsea are being linked with Xabi Alonso as the leading contender to become the club's next head coach, and the key line running through it is that players believe he is the one to get the side back on track.
Why Alonso appeals to the squad
The suggestion is that talks with Alonso's camp are moving in the right direction, even if no agreement is in place. From a dressing-room point of view, the big attraction is simple: they want someone who commands respect and can keep strong egos in line, and Alonso is seen as fitting that bill.
There is also the argument that his standing would help Chelsea when it comes to convincing players to join, which matters at a club that is still trying to settle after yet another managerial change.
The wider shortlist and what happens next
Alonso is described as the frontrunner, but other names are mentioned as being on a shortlist: Andoni Iraola, Marco Silva, Oliver Glasner and Filipe Luis. It is also stated that Cesc Fabregas has indicated he wants to stay at Como.
The expectation is that things could move quicker after Chelsea face Manchester City in the FA Cup final. Until then, it sounds like the club are keeping options open while the process plays out.
Control, recruitment and the structure at Chelsea
One of the key points in the discussion is how much say Alonso would want. The line is that he would be looking for assurances, including a voice over signings, and that Chelsea are prepared to give him what he needs.
At the same time, the recruitment structure is not expected to change, with a group of sporting directors led by Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart. Even so, there is a recognition that someone with Alonso's stature has to be listened to, and that there would be no desire to impose players on him.
The mood in the dressing room
It is claimed that bringing Alonso in would lift morale, particularly with influential players unhappy about Enzo Maresca leaving. The suggestion is that Rosenior did not convince, and that things went flat enough for the team to effectively down tools before he was sacked.
Put it all together and the conclusion is clear from the supporter angle: it feels like Chelsea are trying to land a big name to restore authority and direction, and the feeling here is that Alonso is coming in.
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