# Xabi Alonso management at Chelsea

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/xabi-alonso-management-at-chelsea
> Updated: 2026-10-30T20:10:25.000Z. Sources: 15. Developments: 2.

Following his mid-season dismissal from Real Madrid in January 2026, Xabi Alonso transitioned to managing Chelsea. Alonso described his departure from Madrid as an experience that was “unique and special,” despite the abrupt nature of his exit after a Spanish Super Cup final loss.

Since joining Chelsea, Alonso has addressed club matters, including dismissing rumors regarding the transfer of Cole Palmer to Manchester United. Alonso clarified that while Chelsea and Manchester United engaged in talks concerning Andrey Santos, Palmer remained a central part of Chelsea’s plans and was never a subject of transfer discussions.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-30: Xabi Alonso denies Cole Palmer transfer rumors to Manchester United

Xabi Alonso has denied rumors of Cole Palmer moving to Manchester United, stating the player was never part of transfer discussions between Chelsea and United.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/xabi-alonso-denies-cole-palmer-transfer-rumors-to-manchester-united

### 2026-10-24: Xabi Alonso discusses Real Madrid departure and Chelsea move

Xabi Alonso reflects on his mid-season exit from Real Madrid and explains why he chose to join Chelsea to lead a long-term project.

11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/xabi-alonso-discusses-premature-departure-from-real-madrid

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Cite as: Xabi Alonso management at Chelsea. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/xabi-alonso-management-at-chelsea