Here’s the latest on Chelsea’s managerial situation.
Key developments
- Chelsea sacked their head coach in April 2026 and are actively searching for a new permanent manager. This marks their third managerial change of the season as they reshape under new ownership and aiming to restore stability.[5][7]
- Andoni Iraola is frequently cited as a leading candidate in multiple reports, with Chelsea reportedly considering him for the post as they look to appoint a manager capable of delivering immediate results and long-term continuity.[6][9]
- Other names linked in recent chatter include Francesco Farioli and Xabi Alonso, with various outlets claiming Chelsea have held or planned conversations as part of their shortlist and interviews.[8][9]
Context and what to expect
- The club is prioritizing a high-impact appointment that can quell current instability and align with its long-term project, especially given the late-season results and the need to plan for summer reinforcements.[7][5]
- Interim arrangements have been in place, with talks continuing about a permanent successor who can lead the next phase of Chelsea’s rebuild.[5][6]
Illustration
- A snapshot of the spotlight: interim boss in place → broad shortlist of experienced targets → potential appointment in the coming weeks as the club finalizes its summer plans.
Citations
- Chelsea’s managerial changes and ongoing search as of April–May 2026.[7][5]
- Andoni Iraola repeatedly mentioned as a frontrunner in reports on Chelsea’s recruitment process.[9][6]
- Other linked targets and interview activity appear in various outlets covering the period’s transfer chatter.[8][9]
Sources
Chelsea's hunt to find Jose Mourinho's immediate successor has ended with the appointment of Guus Hiddink until the end of the season. However, speculation continues toward who will receive the job long-term.
bleacherreport.comThere are some big claims being made this afternoon regarding Chelsea’s priority manager target being interviewed for the role. The vacant position that has been left by the sacking of Liam Rosenior has pulled up all sorts of rumours and stories since it happened, and the main linked target for the role is former Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso.
www.yardbarker.comTodd Boehly and the new owners at Stamford Bridge are set to appoint their own head coach as the Blues’ upheaval continues
www.independent.co.ukAn exclusive report via Caught Offside is claiming that Andoni Iraola is the main frontrunner to get the Chelsea manager job. As you will be well aware of by now, Chelsea sacked Liam Rosenior last week after just over three months in charge, and they are on the lookout now to hire a new permanent head coach at the end of the season.
www.yardbarker.comChelsea will reportedly contact Porto manager Francesco Farioli again to try to change his mind about taking the job at Stamford Bridge. The 37-year-old Italian tactician has done a hugely impressive…
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www.archyde.comWatch the latest from ITV News - Chelsea has suffered heavy defeats on the pitch and seen big financial losses off it. The club has now sacked its manager, Liam Rosenoir.
www.itv.com