Xavi Hernandez emerges as Chelsea target in search for new manager

Xavi Hernandez emerges as Chelsea target in search for new manager

Chelsea are in the grip of yet another managerial crisis. The Stamford Bridge club relieved Liam Rosenior of his duties following a damaging run of results that left the Blues’ season in tatters, with Callum McFarlane stepping in on an interim basis to oversee the remainder of the campaign.

The search for a permanent appointment is already underway — and one of the most recognisable names in world football has emerged as a candidate to lead Chelsea into its next chapter.

Xavi Hernandez, the former Barcelona head coach, is under consideration for the role.

Since BlueCo consortium’s takeover, the Blues have prioritised a possession-based, high-energy coaching philosophy.

Xavi, a disciple of the “Tiki-Taka” approach, fits this mould perfectly. At Barcelona, he led the team to a La Liga title in 2022/23 and a Supercopa de Espana.

Chelsea’s managerial carousel has seen Enzo Maresca and Rosenior depart in quick succession during the 2025/26 campaign.

The club currently finds itself adrift of the Champions League places and in desperate need of a long-term project leader. Xavi, who has been on hiatus since leaving Catalonia in 2024, is keen for a challenge in the Premier League.

“There’s no hurry for me, but I’d like a good project,” Xavi told The Athletic.

“Like, ‘You have four years to work and make a project.’ I’d love to work in the Premier League because I love the passion there.