Chelsea are currently in discussions to sign highly regarded set-piece coach Austin MacPhee from Aston Villa, though they face stiff competition from rival Premier League clubs and Saudi Pro League teams. Villa are owed compensation because MacPhee’s contract contains a specified release clause.
Tactical Shift at Stamford Bridge Under Alonso
New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has an opening in his backroom staff as previous set-piece coach Bernardo Cueva shifts away from a touchline role. Cueva originally joined Chelsea from Brentford for a fee of £750,000 in 2024, but he is now moving into a more behind-the-scenes position at the club, clearing the way for MacPhee’s potential arrival.
This pursuit comes during a busy period of player trading between the two clubs. Chelsea recently signed Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa for £117m, while Alejandro Garnacho moved in the opposite direction on an initial loan featuring an option to buy.
MacPhee’s Proven Track Record at Villa Park
The 46-year-old Scottish coach has built a strong reputation across Europe. Alongside his club duties, MacPhee has combined his role at Villa Park with a position on the Portugal national team staff for the past five years, working under manager Roberto Martinez, who resigned following the World Cup.
During the 2023-24 season, Aston Villa scored more goals from set-pieces than any other team across Europe’s top five leagues. They maintained that efficiency by ranking among the top five set-piece scorers a season later, and finished joint-top alongside Arsenal in the Premier League last term.
Did you know? Austin MacPhee has balanced domestic Premier League duties with international coaching for half a decade, operating under Roberto Martinez for the Portugal national team.
Staff Exits Following Unai Emery’s Success
MacPhee is slated to be one of several backroom staff members leaving Villa Park this summer. This exodus follows a highly successful period under manager Unai Emery, during which the club secured the Europa Conference League trophy and achieved qualification for the UEFA Champions League.
Because MacPhee remains under contract at Aston Villa, any acquiring club must negotiate a compensation package tied directly to his release clause.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Chelsea looking to sign Austin MacPhee?
Chelsea want MacPhee to bolster their coaching staff after previous set-piece coach Bernardo Cueva transitioned into a behind-the-scenes role rather than operating from the touchline.
What clubs are competing with Chelsea for MacPhee?
Premier League clubs and teams from the Saudi Pro League are also pursuing the Scottish coach, who has a release clause in his Aston Villa contract.
How successful were Aston Villa’s set-pieces under MacPhee?
During the 2023-24 season, Villa scored more goals from set-pieces than any other team in Europe’s top five leagues, and finished joint-top with Arsenal in the Premier League the following season.
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