Xabi Alonso has emerged as Chelsea's favoured candidate to become their next manager this summer, yet former Blues defender Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has cautioned that the Spanish coach will encounter a familiar obstacle at Stamford Bridge. Alonso's preference remains Liverpool, where Arne Slot has already secured the position, making Chelsea a realistic alternative should the Anfield opportunity remain closed.
Speaking on Sky Sports News, Hasselbaink highlighted a critical flaw in Alonso's managerial approach that derailed his time at Real Madrid. The fundamental issue centres on control and authority within the club structure. "The problem is he wants to manage how he wants to manage and he feels that the players have to follow him," Hasselbaink explained. "Stars are a little bit different, you need the support of the club."
The Keys to Success at Stamford Bridge
According to Hasselbaink, Chelsea's ownership group must grant Alonso complete autonomy over football decisions if they expect him to succeed where previous managers have faltered. "If Chelsea chooses him, you have to give him the keys," the Chelsea legend insisted. "Players need to know that the manager is in charge for football decisions and the moment they know that, they will run harder, they will do their best."
The former striker acknowledged Alonso's tactical philosophy and commitment to systematic play but stressed these qualities only function when a manager wields undisputed authority. Hasselbaink drew parallels to recent Chelsea managerial failures, noting that Liam Rosenior lasted merely 106 days after Enzo Maresca's dismissal in January. Rather than blaming individual managers, Hasselbaink pointed to BlueCo's interference in footballing matters as the root cause of instability.
If Alonso arrives at Chelsea, the club's hierarchy must resist the temptation to meddle in team selection, tactics, and strategic direction. Without this commitment, the Spanish manager will likely face identical constraints that hampered his Real Madrid tenure, regardless of his considerable credentials in developing modern, possession-based football.
