Andoni Iraola Leads Chelsea Manager Hunt as Glasner and Kovac Join Shortlist

Andoni Iraola is the leading candidate for the Chelsea job as Glasner and Kovac join the shortlist. Calum McFarlane leads the Blues into the FA Cup final.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 30, 2026, 5:41 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Football365

The Frontrunner: Andoni Iraola

Following his announcement on April 14 that he will leave Bournemouth at the end of the 2025/26 season, Andoni Iraola has become the focal point of Chelsea’s managerial recruitment. The 43-year-old’s high-intensity philosophy and success on the south coast have placed him at the top of the hierarchy's list. Insiders indicate that while Iraola is weighing several options, the allure of the Chelsea project remains a powerful draw, even amidst a period of significant structural upheaval at the London club. Sources close to the negotiations suggest that a formal approach could be imminent as the Blues seek a manager capable of commanding the respect of their expensive, international squad.

Interim Stability and FA Cup Success

While the search for a permanent figurehead continues, interim manager Calum McFarlane has provided a much-needed morale boost. Promoted from his role as Under-21 coach following the dismissal of Liam Rosenior on April 22, McFarlane led Chelsea to a 1-0 victory over Leeds United in the FA Cup semi-final on April 26. This triumph has booked a place in the final against Manchester City, making McFarlane the first English manager to reach the showpiece event since 2020. His ability to stabilize a dressing room that had reportedly grown disconnected under his predecessor has earned him significant praise from both the board and the supporters.

New Contenders: Glasner and Kovac

In addition to Iraola, the Chelsea hierarchy is expanding its horizons with two prominent continental names. Oliver Glasner, who previously confirmed his departure from Crystal Palace, and Niko Kovac, currently at Borussia Dortmund, have reportedly been added to the official shortlist. Club representatives are understood to be making initial contact with agents to gauge interest and availability. Both managers bring a wealth of European experience—Glasner with his Europa League pedigree and Kovac with a history of managing high-profile clubs like Bayern Munich—fitting the profile of a "big character" that the current squad reportedly desires.