Joe Cole urges Chelsea to hire Aston Villa boss Unai Emery for four reasons

Then, there has been talk about Xavi. The Barcelona legend has been out of work for two years, and his camp insists talks have been held, but those at Chelsea state that Xavi is not seen as a possible target.

Xavi’s win rate is impressive – would you take him at Chelsea?

He’s won 156 of 244 games.

Elsewhere, both Fabian Hurzeler and Francesco Farioli can be chalked off the shortlist. Hurzeler has signed a new deal at Brighton and Andre Villas-Boas has rejected a move for Farioli. Chelsea’s search continues.

Speaking on the latest episode of The Dressing Room podcast, Chelsea icon Cole was discussing who he would like to see take over at Chelsea. He believes Emery would be a good appointment, explaining why.

Joe Cole explains why Chelsea need to consider Unai Emery

Emery has sparkled as Aston Villa manager. The Spaniard returned to England with Villa after having unfinished business with the Premier League, following a difficult spell as Arsene Wenger’s replacement.

The Villa manager has won 105 of his 191 games, boasting a win rate of 55%. His side currently sit in the Europa League quarter-finals, with Champions League qualification pretty much secured this season.

Cole believes Emery, who is quoted by Villa’s website as being “frustrated”, would be an excellent choice for four reasons: an experienced manager, his frustration at Villa, his history and his support network.

“You need an experienced manager who understands football. Someone like Unai Emery, whether he would want Chelsea or not. Apparently, he’s frustrated at Aston Villa. Look at what that man has done.

“Sevilla, Villarreal, Aston Villa, he’s got a structure around him with the director of football who buys good players and knows what he’s doing. Stick with him, trust him, build the club. Get the fans onside.”

Chelsea have little chance of luring Unai Emery from Villa

The former Sevilla, Villarreal and PSG manager has taken a mid-table Premier League side to the top echelon of the Premier League. Emery would be a stunning appointment if Chelsea can tempt him.

MESSAGE TO BLUECO: Get Fabregas in and listen to JT! 👊

It just makes sense.

Yet, despite his frustration at Villa’s recent form and their Europa League semi-final first-leg defeat, it feels like there is little chance of tempting Emery to swap a Champions League club for Chelsea this summer.

Especially with Chelsea currently failing to qualify for any form of European competition. On top of that, Emery signed a new five-year deal at Villa in 2024, which will keep him at the Midlands club until 2029.