Bernardo Cueva, who has served as Chelsea’s set-piece specialist for the last two seasons, is transitioning to a role focused on technical analysis and advisory duties. This move places him further behind the scenes and away from the pitch, as head coach Xabi Alonso finalizes his backroom staff.
Cueva, 38, had been responsible for set-plays since 2024 when Chelsea hired him from Brentford. While his exact new responsibilities will include a focus on set-piece analysis, opposition preparation, and performance insights, Chelsea sources emphasize that this change is not a demotion and that Cueva will continue to hold a crucial role within the club's football operations. He has not been seen at Chelsea's training sessions since pre-season began on July 9 under Alonso.
Chelsea has not yet fully announced Alonso’s full backroom team, but Sebastian Parrilla, known for improving set-piece performance both defensively and offensively, will be among his assistants. Parrilla previously worked with Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen.
Cueva worked with Chelsea during the 2024-25 and 2025-26 seasons under managers Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior, and later alongside interim head coach Calum McFarlane. He was a frequent presence in the dugout and often communicated with the fourth official during matches.
Chelsea had previously identified Cueva as a candidate for a similar role following the departure of Anthony Barry to Bayern Munich. Cueva, who holds a UEFA Pro Licence, was considered a significant acquisition for the club. Prior to his time at Brentford, where he helped secure promotion to the Premier League in 2020, Cueva worked with Chivas in Mexico and also had a role with the Norway men's national team.