Chelsea Consider Former Liverpool Midfielder to Replace Faltering Pochettino

Liverpool icons Steven Gerrard and Xabi Alonso | Imago

Chelsea Consider Former Liverpool Midfielder to Replace Faltering Pochettino

Ayoola Kelechi 23:52 - 05.02.2024

Mauricio Pochettino's days as manager of Chelsea could be under threat as a club executive identifies a replacement for the Argentine manager

Amidst growing pressure on current manager Mauricio Pochettino, Chelsea Football Club is reportedly exploring the possibility of appointing former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso as a potential replacement.

The news comes after Chelsea suffered a disheartening 4-2 defeat against Wolverhampton Wanderers, a result that left Stamford Bridge echoing with boos from the fans.

Pochettino feeling the pressure amidst poor Chelsea form

Pochettino, the Argentinian manager in charge of Chelsea, acknowledged the mounting pressure following the disappointing loss. "We are feeling the pressure at the moment; we are not matching the history of the club, that is true," commented Pochettino during a post-match interview.

According to reports from French publication Sports Zone, Chelsea's ownership is now contemplating the prospect of an immediate managerial change. Xabi Alonso, who currently manages Bayer Leverkusen, has emerged as a prime candidate for the position. Interestingly, Alonso has been linked with potential managerial roles at Liverpool and Bayern Munich in the upcoming summer.

Former Liverpool icon attracting Chelsea interest

Behdad Eghbali, a key figure within Chelsea's ownership structure, is reportedly in favor of bringing in Xabi Alonso as the new manager immediately. However, Todd Boehly, another prominent figure among the club's owners, may hold a more cautious stance on making a swift managerial change.

Despite substantial investments in the playing squad during the summer transfer window, Chelsea has struggled to make significant progress in the Premier League this season. The team currently finds itself in 11th place, a position well below the club's historical standards. Recent defensive woes have added to the team's woes, with Chelsea conceding eight goals in their last two Premier League matches.

Pochettino facing uncertain Chelsea future

Nonetheless, Chelsea remains active in cup competitions, providing a glimmer of hope for fans and the club's ownership. The Blues are set to face Liverpool in the EFL Cup final later this month, offering an opportunity to secure silverware and potentially salvage their season.

The uncertainty surrounding Mauricio Pochettino's future at Stamford Bridge, combined with Chelsea's desire to return to winning ways, makes the managerial position a topic of intense speculation. As discussions continue within the club's hierarchy, the prospect of Xabi Alonso taking charge of Chelsea adds an intriguing twist to the unfolding narrative at the Premier League outfit. Chelsea fans will eagerly await any official announcements or decisions regarding the managerial role as the season progresses.