Liam Rosenior has verbally agreed to manage Chelsea, replacing Enzo Maresca who departed on New Year’s Day. The 41-year-old English manager currently leads Strasbourg and described the opportunity as impossible to decline given Chelsea’s elite status and Club World Cup championship credentials.
Rosenior emphasized he has not yet signed official documentation but confirmed all terms are settled and formalization should occur within hours. He publicly addressed Strasbourg supporters at their stadium, expressing his deep appreciation for the club while explaining his decision to pursue this significant career opportunity.
Three Strasbourg staff members will transition to Chelsea with Rosenior: first-team coach Kalifa Cisse, assistant head coach Justin Walker, and head of analysis Ben Warner. This continuity in his coaching structure reflects Rosenior’s confidence in maintaining his tactical approach at the Premier League club.
Since arriving at Strasbourg in July 2024, Rosenior guided the French club to seventh place in Ligue 1, securing European football for the first time in eight years. His tenure included a final match resulting in a 1-1 draw at Nice on Saturday, part of a stretch without victories. The club currently ranks seventh domestically while leading the Conference League standings.
Reflecting on his departure, Rosenior acknowledged his affection for Strasbourg but stressed that certain opportunities transcend professional calculations. Previously coached in English football at Derby County and Hull, though without Premier League managerial experience. Chelsea currently occupies fifth position in the Premier League ahead of their Wednesday fixture against Fulham, with Calum McFarlane serving as interim manager following their recent Manchester City draw.
