As Chelsea prepare for a new season, the club is poised for a significant overhaul following a turbulent campaign that saw managerial changes and a lack of Champions League football. Xavi, the former Barcelona boss, has emerged as a leading candidate to take the helm at Stamford Bridge, with the potential to reshape the squad through key signings and sales.
Xavi's Appointment and Immediate Challenges
Xavi has been heavily linked with the permanent managerial role at Chelsea after Enzo Maresca departed in January and Liam Rosenior lasted only three months. The 46-year-old Spaniard, who has been out of work since leaving Barcelona in 2024, is seen as a more realistic option than Como's Cesc Fabregas. However, he may have to contend with no Champions League football next season, as Chelsea currently sit ninth in the Premier League, four points off sixth place, with their only route to Europe's top table requiring a specific combination of results involving Aston Villa.
Marquee Signing: Rafael Leao
One of the first moves Xavi could make is to secure a marquee addition. AC Milan's Rafael Leao has been consistently linked with Chelsea, and with two years left on his contract, a fee of around £50 million has been mooted. The Portuguese winger, capable of playing across the front three, would bring both quality and versatility to the attack. Additionally, Xavi may look to reunite with Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who has been out of favour at the Camp Nou and could provide experience to a young squad, though the club must decide on the future of young stopper Mike Penders.
Enzo Fernandez's Future
Enzo Fernandez's future at Chelsea has been a subject of speculation throughout the season. The Argentine midfielder, who has expressed a desire to live in Spain and hinted at a move to Real Madrid, was handed an internal ban by former boss Rosenior before being reinstated. Xavi could decide to sell Fernandez for a reported £80 million, making a clear statement about his authority while raising substantial funds for new signings. Real Madrid's uncertain situation, with squad divisions and an anticipated managerial change, could facilitate a transfer.
£150 Million Clearout
Fernandez is not the only player whose sale could boost Chelsea's finances. The club could raise up to £150 million by offloading several first-team players. Nicolas Jackson, who spent a season on loan at Bayern Munich, may not be retained permanently, while striker Liam Delap has been linked with Newcastle after just one year at Stamford Bridge. Centre-back Wesley Fofana is another potential departure. These sales would allow Xavi to adopt a sell-to-buy approach, enabling him to make at least a couple of important additions even without Champions League revenue.
Conclusion
A Chelsea rebuild under Xavi would involve bold decisions, including the signing of Rafael Leao and the sale of Enzo Fernandez, alongside a broader clearout. With the right moves, the Blues could emerge stronger and more competitive under their new manager.
