Chelsea hires Xabi Alonso as manager, Joe Cole urges veteran signings

Xabi Alonso will take over as Chelsea manager on 1 July, signing a four‑year contract to replace the club’s recent head‑coach structure. The former Real Madrid and Bayern Munich player arrives after a disappointing 10th‑place finish that left the Blues without European competition.

Former Chelsea star Joe Cole told media outlets that Alonso needs experienced free agents to strengthen the squad. He singled out Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva, as well as other senior players such as Robert Lewandowski, saying they could provide the “experience” the team lacks. Cole also stressed that the club should give Alonso full managerial authority, not just a head‑coach title, to allow him to shape the transfer policy and team direction.

Cole praised Alonso’s extensive playing and managerial background, calling his appointment “insane” in a positive sense and urging owners to show humility and patience while the new manager builds his side.