Chelsea have ‘admiration’ for Xabi Alonso as long-term managerial option, but are unlikely to move for the Spaniard at this time.
The west Londoners are conducting their search for a new head coach and have shortlisted a number of names to replace Graham Potter, which include Julian Nagelsmann, Luis Enrique and former manager Antonio Conte.
Chelsea want to conduct a thorough search following the failed reign of Potter, who was sacked last weekend after less than seven months in charge.
The Guardian are reporting that Xabi Alonso is a name who has admirers among the club’s hierarchy, though Chelsea are unlikely to move for the 41-year-old at this stage given his lack of experience.
The former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder has spent less than a season in senior management, having been appointed as Bayer Leverkusen manager in October. He previously spent three seasons in charge of Real Sociedad B and led the club to promotion to the Segunda División for the first time since 1961/62 during his second season.
Only Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund have taken more points in the Bundesliga since Alonso’s appointment, while he has also led Leverkusen into the Europa League quarter-finals.
Frank Lampard is set to be named as Chelsea’s interim manager until the end of the season, as the club conduct their recruitment process for a new head coach.
