Are Xabi Alonso and Andoni Iraola Top Contenders for Chelsea Manager?

Premier League giants Chelsea have begun moving to find a new manager for next season. The name of former Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso has now emerged as the strongest candidate being considered for the hot seat at Stamford Bridge.

According to a report by The Athletic, Chelsea are studying the possibility of bringing the Spaniard to London in the upcoming summer transfer window. 

The Blues are said to be interested in Alonso's experience and playing philosophy, which previously brought success at Bayer Leverkusen before he coached Real Madrid.

"Chelsea are currently exploring the possibility of a deal with Xabi Alonso as head coach. The Spaniard is very open to a deal, but no approaches have been made yet," wrote The Athletic.

However, Chelsea have yet to take official steps to approach Alonso. The club's management is said to still be compiling a list of candidates deemed suitable to handle their young squad for a long-term project.

Alongside Alonso, the name of AFC Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola is also on the radar of the London club. Both coaches are seen as having a modern approach that aligns with Chelsea's team-building direction.

The search for a New Coach comes after Chelsea ended their collaboration with caretaker Liam Rosenoir on April 23rd. The former RC Strasbourg Alsace coach lasted only four months after failing to deliver consistent team performances.

For now, Chelsea are being handled by interim manager Calum McFarlane until the end of the season. Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernandez and his teammates are still trying to close the season positively amidst the uncertainty over the manager's seat.

Meanwhile, Alonso is currently unemployed after being sacked by Real Madrid last January. The former Spanish national team midfielder only lasted half a season at the Santiago Bernabeu before being released by the Los Blancos management.

Now, the opportunity for Alonso to continue his career in the Premier League with Chelsea is heating up. If a deal is reached, Stamford Bridge could become the next major stage for the 44-year-old coach to rebuild his reputation at the elite level in Europe.