Credit: Imago

Daniel Lewis

Sun 17 May 2026 15:00, UK

Tottenham Hotspur fans are worried about a classic ‘new manager bounce’ following confirmation of Xabi Alonso’s appointment at Chelsea.

Chelsea confirmed on Sunday that Alonso will take over as new manager following the recent sacking of Liam Rosenior.

The Spaniard won the Bundesliga title with Bayer Leverkusen in 2024 before joining Real Madrid a year ago, where he lasted less than eight months.

Spurs make the trip to bogey ground Stamford Bridge on Tuesday in a game the Lilywhites really need to take something from.

While Alonso will not be in the dugout for that contest in West London, Spurs fans are still fearful what the news may now mean.

Xabi Alonso news could lift Chelsea squad

Chelsea have been down in the dumps of late in what has been a terrible campaign for them.

The Blues could have salvaged their season on Saturday, only to lose to Manchester City in the FA Cup final.

All Chelsea now have left to play for is likely challenging for a Europa League spot at best via the Premier League.

Tottenham know the impact a new manager can have on a side, given the work Roberto De Zerbi has so far achieved.

And while not strictly in the dugout in midweek, Alonso being named as manager – tellingly not ‘head coach’ – could see Chelsea’s players pick up their games.

“All their players will want to impress; not good news for us, “one wrote on X, with others following suit.

“He’ll be announced to the crowd, I bet,” another posted, wondering what Alonso being present might do in terms of lifting the atmosphere.

Conflicting reports surround Alonso presence vs Tottenham

Alonso will officially take charge of Tottenham on 1 July, so he has another six weeks or so before he gets going.

However, managers will like to get to know their players as early as possible and Alonso could very much get a head start in that regard.

Some reports suggest the plan is for Alonso to be in the stands on Tuesday; others are reporting he intends to stay away for the remaining two games.

Tottenham’s record at Stamford Bridge is dire and they could do with all the help they can get.

Alonso’s appointment is a lift of sorts for Chelsea, granted, but on the basis of performances over the past few months now, they are there for the taking.