Chelsea Reveal Why Former Head Coach Left as Club Backs Xabi Alonso for New Season

Chelsea Football Club has broken its silence on the departure of its former head coach, revealing that his desire to replace Pep Guardiola at Manchester City played a key role in his unexpected exit midway through the 2025/26 season.

Chelsea have admitted that the 2025/26 campaign was a disappointing one for both the club and its supporters, with the mid-season managerial change identified as a major factor behind the team's struggles.

In a statement, the club explained that the former head coach had informed Chelsea in the autumn of 2025 that he could have the opportunity to succeed Pep Guardiola at Manchester City at the end of the season.

According to the club, it became increasingly clear that the coach was determined to pursue the role, despite being under a long-term contract at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea said the situation took an unexpected turn in December 2025 when the coach abruptly resigned from his position, leaving the club with little choice but to accept his decision.

The club described the resignation as disappointing, saying it believed the coach's "head and heart" were already focused on another club, despite having joined Chelsea only a year earlier.

"No club wants to change its head coach midway through a season," Chelsea stated, adding that accepting the resignation was necessary to protect the players, supporters and the club's identity.

Chelsea also confirmed that confidential settlement agreements had been reached with both Manchester City and the former head coach. Under the agreements, compensation will be paid, although the financial details remain undisclosed.

Looking ahead, the club expressed confidence in new manager Xabi Alonso, describing him as a coach with an exceptional football mind and the integrity needed to lead Chelsea back to success.

The Blues said they believe Alonso possesses all the qualities required to deliver the results that supporters expect in the coming season.