Chelsea have added former Barcelona manager Xavi to their shortlist as they search for a permanent successor to Liam Rosenior. The former Strasbourg boss was sacked last month after only three months in charge at Stamford Bridge.
Caretaker and Shortlist
Calum McFarlane has been placed in caretaker charge until the end of the season while club officials seek a long-term replacement. Several names have already been linked with the role. According to The Independent, Chelsea have identified four candidates who align with the footballing philosophy the club's owners aim to implement. Xabi Alonso, Porto's Francesco Farioli, and Cesc Fabregas are all considered suitable, though Fabregas is not expected to leave Como this summer.
Xavi's Interest
Another candidate on Chelsea's radar is former Barcelona boss Xavi. The Spaniard is believed to fit well into the club's preferred school of thought. Having been out of work since leaving Barcelona, Xavi is keen to return to football but desires a 'project', which may not align with the volatile environment at Stamford Bridge.
Andoni Iraola Concerns
Outgoing Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola was also thought to be on Chelsea's shortlist. However, there are concerns that his style represents a departure from Chelsea's current philosophy, leaving the club in a dilemma over whether to stick with their original plan or divert. Iraola is likely to be available after a return to Athletic Bilbao fell through; the Spanish club confirmed that Edin Terzic will replace Ernesto Valverde from next season.
Jamie Carragher has backed Iraola for a move to West London, saying: 'When you see someone like Iraola, I don't think you could ever fall out of love with his team if you were a supporter. They always run. There's always that running element. They will lose games. They will maybe pick up injuries because of the style of play. I would probably like to see it in a bigger job and how he adapts.'
