In a surprising development within English football’s managerial landscape, Liam Rosenior has publicly confirmed reaching a verbal agreement to assume managerial duties at Premier League powerhouse Chelsea FC. The 41-year-old made the announcement during a press conference at his current club, French Ligue 1 side Strasbourg, stating the prestigious appointment represents “an opportunity I cannot turn down.”
Rosenior emerges as the unexpected frontrunner to succeed recently dismissed Enzo Maresca, who was relieved of his position last Thursday. The managerial connection between the clubs appears facilitated by their shared ownership under the BlueCo consortium, which controls both Chelsea and Strasbourg. This relationship likely accelerated the negotiation process despite Rosenior’s limited top-flight managerial experience.
Should the appointment be formally confirmed, Rosenior would become Chelsea’s fourth permanent manager since BlueCo acquired the club in 2022. The former Hull City manager lacks Premier League coaching credentials but brings recent Championship experience and a successful stint with Strasbourg, where he guided the team to a respectable seventh-place finish in the 2023-24 Ligue 1 season.
Rosenior emphasized his emotional connection to Strasbourg during the announcement, explaining his decision to break the news personally to honor his relationship with the club and its supporters. Chelsea management conducted formal discussions with Rosenior in London on Monday, though the club has yet to issue an official confirmation regarding the appointment.
The prospective move marks a dramatic career elevation for Rosenior, whose previous managerial experience includes an interim role at Derby County and an assistant position under Wayne Rooney before his 18-month tenure at Hull City ended in dismissal. His transition to Chelsea would place him under intense media scrutiny at one of England’s most high-profile football institutions.