LONDON, England (AP):Chelsea hired Xabi Alonso as manager yesterday on a four-year deal starting next season, with the Spaniard returning to coaching after a short, rocky spell at Real Madrid and tasked with bringing stability to a club that has become dysfunctional under its American ownership.

Alonso, 44, visited London early last week and has accepted the opportunity.

Chelsea are on the verge of appointing Xabi Alonso after reaching an agreement in principle with the Spaniard to become their new head coach

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