Coach Xabi Alonso will face an important decision if he receives an offer to lead Chelsea this summer.
Although Chelsea is undergoing many upheavals, the coaching seat at Stamford Bridge is still an attractive destination for many top European coaches. However, potential candidates also understand that this summer's training market may open up more opportunities.
According to many sources in England, Alonso still prioritizes working in the Premier League. His dream job has long been said to be the captain position of Liverpool, but currently Anfield has not shown signs of change on the coaching bench.
Despite recent rumors and speculation, Alonso is said to be willing to consider Chelsea if he receives suitable conditions in terms of expertise and team control.
Meanwhile, pressure is increasing on coach Arne Slot after a season that was considered disappointing at Liverpool. Although still receiving support from Fenway Sports Group, the long-term future of the Dutch strategist is still questioned.
The Blues are said to have contacted representatives of many coaches on the shortlist. Under the American owners, the London team wants to be more cautious in appointing new coaches after a series of ineffective decisions in recent seasons.
Chelsea's priority criteria are an experienced strategist, with a strong personality and having proven his ability at the highest level. According to internal assessments, Alonso is currently emerging as the most promising candidate to meet those requirements.
Besides Alonso, Chelsea is also considering some other notable names such as Andoni Iraola of Bournemouth, Marco Silva of Fulham, Oliver Glasner of Crystal Palace, Cesc Fabregas in Como and Felipe Luis.
Former legend Jamie Carragher believes that Alonso's acceptance to lead Chelsea may make the opportunity to take over Liverpool in the future more complicated.
I always thought Alonso would lead Liverpool at some point. But if you lead a big opponent like Chelsea, things will be different" - the former Liverpool center-back shared.
Carragher also believes that many Liverpool fans are now beginning to doubt Slot's ability after the team's decline this season: "What worries fans is whether Slot will follow in Erik ten Hag's footsteps - an impressive start and then quickly decline in the next season".
However, according to sources close to Liverpool, Slot is likely to still be given more opportunities next season.
Therefore, Alonso's future is now becoming one of the most notable topics in the European coaching market, in the context that both Chelsea and Liverpool are facing important decisions for the next stage.
