Chelsea have reached out to a former Barcelona boss over the manager’s job, and it is believed that he’d be open to joining.
Chelsea making checks on new manager candidates
Chelsea’s search for a new manager is gathering pace, and the early picture suggests a wide-ranging shortlist rather than a clear frontrunner.
Names like Andoni Iraola and Xabi Alonso have been consistently linked, with both viewed as modern, progressive coaches capable of shaping a long-term project.
Iraola will be available this summer after confirming his departure from Bournemouth, while Alonso is also unattached following a short spell at Real Madrid.
There is also interest in more Premier League-proven options such as Marco Silva, whose situation at Fulham remains unresolved.
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Chelsea’s approach appears deliberate, with the club exploring multiple candidates rather than rushing into an appointment after the departure of Liam Rosenior.
Against that backdrop, another name has entered the frame: Xavi.
According to talkSPORT, Chelsea have made an initial approach to the former Barcelona boss, and he would be open to taking a job in England, with the outlet citing that information from sources close to him.
The report positions Xavi as a serious contender rather than a speculative link, suggesting the club are casting their net across both emerging and elite-level coaches.
Xavi has been out of management since leaving Barcelona at the end of the 2023/24 season, having delivered a La Liga title during his tenure.
His coaching profile is well established: possession-based football, a strong emphasis on structure, and a clear philosophical identity rooted in his playing days.
That style may appeal to Chelsea’s hierarchy, who are believed to be looking for a coach capable of implementing consistency across all levels of the club.
However, this is not a straightforward appointment.
Chelsea’s current situation adds a layer of risk for any incoming manager.
Despite reaching the FA Cup final, their league form has been poor, with the team sitting ninth and on a six-game losing run in the league for the first time in 33 years.
Iraola offers intensity and pressing, Alonso brings tactical flexibility and recent success in Germany, while Xavi represents a more defined positional style shaped from his time at Barcelona.
Chelsea’s decision may ultimately come down to which identity they want to commit to long term, rather than simply chasing short-term results.
For now, Xavi’s openness to an English move keeps him firmly in the conversation.
However, with several high-profile names also still under consideration and no final decision imminent, Chelsea’s managerial search remains wide open, and it’ll likely to stay that way until the club are convinced they have found the right fit.
The 46-year-old does represent a very intriguing option though, and one which would undoubtedly command the respect of big names in Chelsea’s dressing room.
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