Xabi Alonso is the man Chelsea need to get their house in order. The players are behind him, and with good reason. The former Real Madrid and Bayern Leverkusen manager has the experience, the pedigree, and the respect of the dressing room. He's a proven winner, having lifted multiple Champions League titles with Liverpool and domestic trophies with Bayern. And he's a key member of the Spain team that won two European Championships and the World Cup between 2008 and 2012. But it's not just his playing career that makes him a strong candidate. Alonso has also shown he can be a successful manager, having won the Bundesliga title with Leverkusen in 2024. And while he's only 44, he's already got a wealth of experience under his belt. What's more, Alonso is a man who listens. He's not afraid to take on board the lessons from his time at Madrid, where he lasted just 34 games after failing to win over influential elements of the dressing room. Chelsea are looking for a manager who can command the respect of the dressing room and keep strong egos in line. And that's exactly what Alonso appears to be. The players are behind him, and with good reason. He's a man who can get the team back on track and bring a sense of unity and purpose to the squad. But it's not just the players who are backing Alonso. The club's recruitment structure is not about to change, with a team of five sporting directors headed by Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart. However, there is a recognition that someone of Alonso's stature must be listened to when it comes to signings. And Chelsea are willing to give him what he needs. If a deal can be thrashed out with Alonso, it would help improve dressing-room morale. The players are disquieted by the departure of Enzo Maresca, who was highly rated by the team. And with the team effectively downing tools before Liam Rosenior was sacked, the need for a strong, respected leader is clear. Alonso is the man to fill that role. The worry for Palace is that they could miss out on Andoni Iraola if he is offered the Chelsea job. But with Alonso in the frame, there's a sense that a deal will be agreed. And that's a good thing for everyone involved. The players are behind him, the club is willing to give him what he needs, and the team is in desperate need of a strong, respected leader. If Chelsea can get Alonso on board, it could be the start of something special. And with the FA Cup final looming, it's a good time to make a change. The players are ready for a new challenge, and with Alonso at the helm, they could be in for a bright future.
