Chelsea Football Club understands that the 2025/26 season has been extremely disappointing for the club and its fans. The main contributing factor to this was the disruption caused by the changes the Club were forced to make to the head coach over the Christmas period. Due to recent events, we believe it is important to explain to our fans what happened and why our former head coach left the club on January 1, 2026.
Last fall, our former head coach told the club that he might have the opportunity to replace Pep Guardiola at the end of the season. It became clear to us that he was keen to succeed Guardiola and that he was fully prepared to pursue the opportunity, despite the fact that he had a long-term contract which he had no right to terminate.
In December 2025, our head coach unexpectedly and abruptly resigned. Obviously we felt disappointed as we thought his head and heart were focused on another club and new opportunities, despite the fact that he had just arrived at Chelsea the year before.
No club wants to change their head coach in the middle of the season. However, in light of his decision not to continue in his duties until the end of the season, the Club is left with no choice but to protect our players, our fans and the Badge by accepting his resignation.
In the circumstances, and with mutual respect between the clubs, a confidential agreement has been reached with Manchester City, which includes compensation. A confidential agreement was also reached with the former head coach, according to which he will pay compensation.
Looking forward to next season, in Xabi Alonso we have a manager who has exceptional football intelligence and is a professional of the highest integrity. He has all the qualities to achieve the success that the club’s fans deserve and expect.