Key Takeaways:
- Chelsea included Xavi Hernandez in their shortlist of five potential managerial candidates
- Cesc Fabregas will not leave Como this summer, taking him out of contention
- Andoni Iraola will be available in the summer after recently announcing his departure from Bournemouth
Chelsea’s Managerial Shortlist Grows
Chelsea have expanded their search for a new manager, with Xavi Hernandez, the former Barcelona boss, now amongst the primary candidates. The London club’s hierarchy has drawn up a shortlist of five names they believe best align with the club’s footballing philosophy.
Breakdown of the Candidates
Cesc Fabregas was initially considered but is now out of the running, as it has been confirmed that the ex-midfielder will remain at Como for the upcoming season and will not be making a move this summer.
🚨 JUST IN: Xavi Hernandez has emerged as a serious contender for the Chelsea managerial role.
Chelsea are actively assessing the Spaniard as part of their shortlist, with discussions ongoing internally over a potential appointment.
[@MiguelDelaney] pic.twitter.com/hKIG0H5wju
— MatchDay Central (@MatchDCentral) May 5, 2026
Other leading figures in contention include Francesco Farioli of Porto, Xabi Alonso, and Andoni Iraola. Alonso, who was dismissed from Real Madrid in January, is currently without a club, making him available for potential negotiations. Iraola is also set to be on the market after announcing that he will depart Bournemouth at the end of the current campaign.
| Candidate | Current/Last Club | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Xavi Hernandez | Barcelona | Available |
| Cesc Fabregas | Como | Ruled out (staying at Como) |
| Francesco Farioli | Porto | In contention |
| Xabi Alonso | Real Madrid | Available (dismissed in January) |
| Andoni Iraola | Bournemouth | Available (leaving end of season) |
Managerial Movements and Recent Updates
Andoni Iraola has also been mentioned in connection with a return to Athletic Bilbao. However, that door has now closed, as the club officially announced today that Edin Terzić will take charge from the summer.
Xavi Looking for the Right Opportunity
Xavi Hernandez, having parted ways with Barcelona in 2024, is currently unattached and reportedly waiting for a managerial project that offers him broader scope and freedom to express his approach. As the process continues, Chelsea’s decision-makers will evaluate their options carefully to select the candidate best suited to steer the club’s ambitions in the next chapter.
