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According to a report by London Evening Standard on Thursday May 21, 2026, Xabi Alonso has promised to build a strong Chelsea squad despite growing speculation surrounding the futures of several important players at Stamford Bridge. The Spaniard also described Chelsea as a “beautiful project” as he prepares to officially begin work as the club’s new manager next month.
Chelsea confirmed Alonso’s appointment last weekend on a four-year contract. The former Bayer Leverkusen boss will officially start at Cobham on June 1 after replacing Liam Rosenior, who was dismissed in April following a brief spell in charge. Calum McFarlane has since overseen the team as interim coach for the second time this season.
Alonso arrives in west London facing uncertainty over next season’s European involvement. Chelsea could still miss out on continental football altogether depending on the final Premier League standings. The Blues currently sit eighth heading into the last game of the campaign after their FA Cup final defeat against Manchester City ended hopes of qualifying for the Champions League.
Chelsea remain in contention for either the Europa League or Conference League after securing a crucial 2-1 victory over Tottenham on Tuesday night. The club will now battle Brighton, Brentford and Sunderland for the remaining European positions on the final day of the season.
Several Chelsea stars have recently been linked with summer exits. Real Madrid continue to monitor Enzo Fernandez, while Barcelona are reportedly interested in Joao Pedro and Marc Cucurella. Alonso, however, appeared relaxed about the situation and expressed confidence in the squad he expects to work with next season.
The former Liverpool, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid midfielder also insisted that the possibility of missing European football did not affect his decision to join Chelsea.
“No, I was always open to it, and, well, it’s a beautiful project,” Alonso said. “Chelsea is a nice project, it’s a very good option.”
Alonso enjoyed major success at Bayer Leverkusen before a short managerial spell at Real Madrid ended earlier this year. He refused to discuss his time at the Bernabeu in detail when questioned further.
