Chelsea are allegedly considering hiring former Barcelona manager Xavi as their next permanent head coach. Following Liam Rosenior’s dismissal, the Blues are reevaluating their strategy, with Calum McFarlane serving as acting manager of the first team.
Chelsea is examining their management status following Rosenior’s brief stay. Despite a good FA Cup performance, the whole season has been rather disappointing. According to the Independent, the club’s owners are now looking for a permanent head coach to guide the team through the next phase of the project. Maintaining the football identity established over the first four years of the current ownership group is a top objective.
Within Stamford Bridge, there is a belief that progress has been made in embedding a clear tactical philosophy across the club. That mentality now extends from the first team down through the academy structure, and Chelsea expects the next manager to maintain it.
Several high-profile candidates are under consideration as the club assesses its options. The same report claims that former Barcelona manager Xavi has moved into prominent contention. The Spaniard is viewed as a coach whose principles align with the proactive, possession-based style Chelsea have worked to establish across the club.
Other names are also being monitored by the BlueCo leadership. Former Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso, Porto coach Francesco Farioli and Como boss Cesc Fabregas have all been linked with the role as the search continues.
Xavi’s credentials make him an appealing option. The 46-year-old guided Barcelona to the La Liga title during his three-year spell at Camp Nou before leaving the club in 2024.
Competition and availability could influence Chelsea’s decision. Fabregas is currently impressing at Como and is not expected to leave his project in Italy this summer, while Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola is also admired for his high-pressing approach but represents a slightly different coaching philosophy.
