Chelsea are set to appoint Liam Rosenior as their new manager after the 41-year-old revealed he has “verbally agreed” to take charge of the Premier League giants.
Rosenior, currently head coach of Strasbourg, described the opportunity as one he “cannot turn down.” Despite having only three years of managerial experience and never coaching in the Premier League, he is on the cusp of one of football’s toughest jobs.
Background
- Rosenior succeeds Enzo Maresca, who was sacked last Thursday after 18 months in charge.
- He will become Chelsea’s fourth permanent boss since BlueCo took control in 2022.
- Talks were held in London on Monday with Chelsea sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart.
- Rosenior announced the news himself in Strasbourg, citing his respect for the club and its supporters.
Career Path
- Former defender with Fulham, Reading, Hull, and Brighton.
- Began coaching at Derby County in 2019, working under Phillip Cocu and Wayne Rooney.
- Briefly served as Derby’s interim boss in 2022 before taking over at Hull City.
- Appointed Strasbourg manager in July 2024, guiding them to 7th place in Ligue 1 last season.
Chelsea Context
Maresca’s exit followed reports of tension with the board, including speculation he had spoken to Manchester City about succeeding Pep Guardiola. Interim coach Calum McFarlane oversaw Chelsea’s 1-1 draw at Manchester City on Sunday.
Chelsea’s next fixture is against Fulham on Wednesday — one of Rosenior’s former clubs — and could mark the beginning of his tenure.