Xabi Alonso explains why he took Chelsea job despite being strongly linked with Liverpool return
Xabi Alonso explains his decision to join Chelsea as manager rather than returning to Liverpool, citing timing as the primary factor. The move occurred shortly before Liverpool dismissed their previous manager, Arne Slot.
Why it matters
This highlights the high-stakes nature of managerial appointments in elite European football and the impact of timing on career trajectories.
Xabi Alonso explains why he took Chelsea job despite being strongly linked with Liverpool return Empire of the Kop Mon, July 13, 2026 at 8:40 PM UTC · 2 min read Xabi Alonso has said there is one simple reason why his return to the Premier League took him to Chelsea rather than Liverpool.
Earlier this year, the former Reds midfielder was strongly tipped to take over from Arne Slot when the latter was coming under increasing pressure at Anfield, and there were reports in May that he’d even be prepared to wait for LFC if they were to dispense with the Dutchman.
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