Liam Rosenior has been confirmed as Chelsea’s new head coach, signing a contract that will run until 2032. He replaces Enzo Maresca at Stamford Bridge after Maresca left the club last week, following a disagreement.
Rosenior has left Strasbourg, Chelsea’s partner club under the BlueCo ownership group, following talks held on Monday.
Speaking at a Strasbourg press conference on Tuesday, Rosenior said the opportunity to join Chelsea was one he could not refuse, despite his strong attachment to the French club.
Rosenior emerged as the leading candidate to replace Maresca soon after his departure, although the move required careful handling due to BlueCo’s ownership of both clubs. Strasbourg are now seeking a new manager, with Gary O’Neil among those being considered.
Speaking to Chelsea’s website, Rosenior said the club has a special spirit and a proud history. He said his job is to protect Chelsea’s identity, build a team that shows the club’s values, and keep winning trophies. He added that being trusted with the role means a lot to him.
The former Hull City manager is seen as a promising coach. Chelsea is not expected to change their playing style much from Maresca’s. The team is currently fifth in the Premier League. They will play Fulham on Wednesday before facing Arsenal next week in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final.
Rosenior said he was excited about the future but admitted the decision was emotional. He said he had worked his entire life to coach at the highest level and manage a world-class football club, while also expressing sadness at leaving Strasbourg.
He confirmed that his assistants Kalifa Cissé and Justin Walker, along with Strasbourg’s head of analysis Ben Warner, will join him at Chelsea.
