Chelsea are considering former Barcelona manager Xavi as a potential replacement for Liam Rosenior, according to a report from talkSPORT. The Blues have made an initial approach for the 46-year-old, who is said to be ‘open’ to the idea of taking charge at Stamford Bridge next season.
Rosenior’s 107-day spell as Chelsea manager ended last month, and the club are now actively seeking a permanent successor. A recent run of five consecutive defeats has jeopardized their chances of securing European football, with their FA Cup tie against Manchester City representing a key opportunity. The 3-1 defeat to Nottingham Forest highlighted the challenges facing the next manager.
Xavi has been out of work since his dismissal from Barcelona in May 2024. In 2019, when previously linked with a move to the Premier League, he expressed his admiration for English football, specifically mentioning Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United, Arsenal and Tottenham as clubs he would consider. He praised the atmosphere and the quality of the league.
However, Chelsea are reportedly ‘prioritising other candidates’ at this stage, undertaking a ‘thorough recruitment process’ following previous unsuccessful appointments. Other managers linked with the role include Xabi Alonso, Oliver Glasner, Cesc Fabregas, and Andoni Iraola, who has confirmed he will leave Bournemouth at the end of the season.
Iraola himself is attracting interest from multiple clubs, including Crystal Palace, and is not expected to rush into a decision. Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke stated that Iraola will have numerous options, potentially from top European leagues, and will need to be convinced by a project. Chelsea’s ambitions are acknowledged as a significant draw.
Additionally, sources indicate that Chelsea have ‘deeply discussed’ the possibility of appointing Porto boss Francesco Farioli as they continue to evaluate their options. The club appears to be keeping a broad range of potential candidates under consideration as they navigate the managerial search.
