Chelsea gears up for new era under manager Xabi Alonso

Chelsea Football Club entered a new chapter in the summer of 2026 as former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso took charge. After a disappointing 10th‑place finish in the 2025‑26 Premier League and fan unrest, the club aims to stabilise under Alonso’s press‑and‑possession style.

The preseason focus is on key squad members. New signing Maxence Lacroix arrived from Crystal Palace to compete for a centre‑back role alongside established defenders such as Wesley Fofana. Young academy graduate Josh Acheampong and forward Cole Palmer are also under pressure to perform, with their future at the club hinging on early displays.

Alonso’s arrival follows more than £1 billion in spending under the Todd Boehly ownership, and the upcoming campaign will test whether the tactical identity he brings can translate into improved results for the Blues.