Chelsea's search for a permanent successor to sacked manager Liam Rosenior is crystallising around Andoni Iraola, with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirming that the outgoing Bournemouth head coach would welcome the opportunity to take charge at Stamford Bridge.
Iraola, 43, is leaving Bournemouth at the end of the season after three campaigns that produced Premier League finishes of 12th and 9th, before pushing for European qualification in his third — a remarkable achievement with a club of Cherries' resources. He is already available as a free agent given his Bournemouth departure was confirmed weeks ago.
The shortlist narrows
Romano has been emphatic in ruling out Cesc Fabregas, confirming the Como boss is "very happy" at the Italian club and is already planning next season's squad and signings. That removes one of the most emotionally appealing candidates from contention. Julian Nagelsmann, linked with the role repeatedly over recent years, was considered for a previous Chelsea vacancy before the club concluded he was "not a fit." Marco Silva of Fulham has been mentioned in early conversations, while Oliver Glasner remains available as a free agent.
Filipe Luis, who was dismissed by Flamengo in March, has shorter odds than most in the betting markets, while Jose Mourinho — currently at Benfica — has been linked by some outlets with a sensational third spell.
Chelsea posted the biggest pre-tax loss in Premier League history — £262 million — in 2024-25. The club have gone through six permanent managers under BlueCo in four years. Senior players were reported to have "lost faith" in Rosenior before his dismissal. Whoever takes the job will require significant backing, a clear identity and the patience of an ownership group that has shown little of it to date.
