Xabi Alonso and Andoni Iraola are reportedly emerging as the two leading contenders for the permanent Chelsea head coach position as the club continue their managerial search ahead of next season.

According to Goal, Chelsea have now narrowed their focus to a smaller group of candidates, with both Alonso and Iraola viewed internally as strong long-term fits for the project currently being built at Stamford Bridge.

The 44-year-old, left Real Madrid by mutual consent earlier this year, although reports from Spain suggest his relationship with the players had become increasingly strained in recent months.

Meanwhile, Iraola has continued to strengthen his reputation in the Premier League after impressing with Bournemouth, who remain in contention for European qualification following another strong campaign under the Spaniard.

Chelsea Reportedly Confident Over Alonso Pursuit

According to The Guardian, Chelsea are confident of luring Alonso to Stamford Bridge.

Suggestions that Alonso may be waiting for Liverpool to part ways with Arne Slot have reportedly been downplayed internally, with Liverpool still expected to continue under the Dutch manager despite criticism from sections of supporters regarding the club’s style of play this season.

That situation could leave Chelsea with a relatively clear run at Alonso if the former midfielder decides he wants to move into Premier League management.

Chelsea reportedly believe Alonso’s profile, tactical reputation and stature within European football make him an ideal fit for the current squad. The club also feel his presence could help attract future transfer targets as they continue reshaping the team.

Despite growing confidence within the club, the Blues are still waiting on the Spaniard's final decision regarding whether he wants to coach in England at this stage of his managerial career.

Iraola Continues to Impress Chelsea Hierarchy

Andoni Iraola is also understood to be highly regarded by Chelsea’s hierarchy and appears to remain one of the strongest alternatives should a move for Alonso not materialise.

The Bournemouth manager has earned widespread praise for his work in the Premier League, particularly for implementing an aggressive, high-energy playing style while continuing to improve results despite squad limitations.

Chelsea are believed to have spent recent months internally assessing the direction of the squad following the departure of Liam Rosenior, with concerns reportedly growing around the team’s physicality and intensity levels.

One statistic that reportedly stood out internally was Chelsea only managing to outrun an opponent for the first time in the league this season during their recent victory over Liverpool after being second-best physically in many previous matches.

Iraola’s coaching style and tactical demands are therefore viewed as qualities that could potentially help reshape Chelsea’s identity moving forward.

The 43-year-old has also impressed by maintaining Bournemouth’s competitiveness despite losing key players and operating with fewer resources compared to many clubs around them.

Chelsea Could Make Decision Soon

The Blues are still aiming to appoint a permanent manager before the middle of June, although increasing reports surrounding a narrowed shortlist could suggest the process is entering its final stages sooner than expected.

The club’s immediate focus will remain on upcoming fixtures, including an FA Cup final against Manchester City before an important league clash with Tottenham.

Chelsea currently sit ninth in the Premier League table, making Champions League qualification increasingly unlikely through league position alone.

However, victory in the FA Cup would still secure automatic qualification for the Europa League and potentially provide some momentum heading into another important summer at Stamford Bridge.

With Alonso and Iraola both continuing to attract attention, Chelsea’s next managerial appointment is shaping up to be one of the club’s most important decisions in recent years.

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