Xabi Alonso’s desire which gives Chelsea an advantage over Liverpool in hiring him as manager
Despite Xabi Alonso’s affection for Liverpool going back over 20 years, his desire to live in London gives Chelsea an edge over their rivals in hiring him this summer.
Alonso has emerged as the favourite to become the next permanent manager at Stamford Bridge, ahead of the likes of Andoni Iraola and Marco Silva.
Chelsea were impressed by Alonso in early talks with the former Real Madrid boss, and have been left confident they can hire him for next season.
YOU DECIDE: Who should Chelsea sign this summer?💰
Xabi Alonso wants to live in London amid Chelsea interest
This is despite the elephant in the room regarding his former club, Liverpool, who have also underperformed this season with Arne Slot.
However, journalist Alex Crook has stated that Alonso has a desire to live in London, something the Blues can offer that Liverpool cannot.
He said to TalkSport: “I think he’ll be the Chelsea manager at the start of next season. I mean, you look at the shelf life of Chelsea managers, that doesn’t mean he’ll be there come the end of the season. But yeah, that does seem to be moving in a positive direction.
“I think he was a bit reluctant when they first entered negotiations, so I can only assume that he’s been promised maybe a little bit more control than some of his predecessors have got. I know he’s keen to manage in the Premier League.
“I think he’s keen to live in London, which is why any Liverpool links maybe are a little bit far-fetched at this stage, not least because we expect Arne Slot to stay, certainly for the start of next season.
“But yeah, I think Alonso is moving forward in terms of Chelsea, and that might have a knock-on effect with Andoni Iraola and Crystal Palace.”
It’s good news for Chelsea, but is it enough? 🏆
Calum McFarlane’s latest injury update.
Early demands made by Alonso to Chelsea
During talks between the two parties, it is believed the potential new manager has made some demands in order to accept the role.
Alonso wants two new centre-backs at Stamford Bridge, potentially hinting that he will look to play in a three-at-the-back formation like he did at Bayer Leverkusen.
The Spaniard is wary of the treatment of former managers at the club too. Enzo Maresca is the only head coach in the BlueCo era to make it to a second season.
However, the signs are positive that Alonso is about to make the move to West London, a decision which will go some way to bringing Chelsea supporters back on board.
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox
