Chelsea have appointed Liam Rosenior as their new head coach on a six-and-a-half-year deal until 2032, following Enzo Maresca's sacking on New Year's Day. The 41-year-old joins from sister club Strasbourg amid mixed reactions over his experience. His first match will be an FA Cup third-round tie against Charlton Athletic.
Following Enzo Maresca's dismissal on January 1 after less than six months into the season—despite prior successes like the Club World Cup—Under-21s coach Calum McFarlane took interim charge. McFarlane oversaw a 1-1 Premier League draw at Manchester City, with Enzo Fernández scoring late, before a derby at Fulham.
Chelsea confirmed Rosenior's appointment on Tuesday. The former Hull City and Strasbourg manager, who has won 66 of 153 games across Derby (interim), Hull, and Strasbourg, brings a high-pressing, passing style. Strasbourg finished seventh in Ligue 1 last season under him.
Reactions are divided. Chris Sutton questioned Chelsea's ambition, comparing to past big-name hires like Jose Mourinho, while Jamie Carragher doubted title prospects. Pat Nevin backed the choice for aligning with ownership philosophy, Darren Bent praised tactics, and Paul Canoville celebrated Rosenior as one of few black Premier League managers.
Rosenior watched the Fulham game from the stands. Chelsea remain in contention across three cups, including a Carabao Cup semi-final against Arsenal and Champions League league phase ties.
