Next Chelsea manager: Liam Rosenior makes surprising admission

Robin Bairner

• 4 Jan 2026 05:31 CST
• 3 min read

News

Liam Rosenior has spoken out about the prospect of replacing Enzo Maresca as Chelsea manager.

Maresca surprisingly left the Stamford Bridge club on New Year’s Day after a dispute with co-owner Behdad Eghbali, and FootballTransfers exclusively revealed that Rosenior would replace the Italian.

The 41-year-old refused to confirm there have been talks with Chelsea, despite being the runaway favourite for the job, but instead doubled down on his commitment to his current job at Strasbourg.

“I haven’t discussed anything at this point. There’s nothing concrete in these rumours. They’re just rumours. What will be, will be,” he said following a 1-1 draw with Nice.

“It's a very beautiful city, a great club, with great fans. I have loved everything. The players were incredible. I really want the best for this club. I don't know if this is my last match. In life, you never know.”

Despite being pressed several times, he would not be drawn into commenting on Chelsea, insisting he is focused on the Coupe de France match with Avranches next weekend.

Rosenior hugged every one of his Strasbourg players at the end of the game and also waved to the travelling support at full-time in a gesture that seemed to be one of farewell.

Rosenior faces uncertain welcome at Chelsea

Rosenior has been a huge success in Strasbourg since moving to France in the summer of 2024.

He posts a 51.6% win rate and led Racing back to Europe last season while embracing the philosophy of Chelsea owners BlueCo.

This has been achieved amidst a backdrop of frustration from the Strasbourg fans, who have complained that the club has lost its identity since being taken over.

Rosenior faces something of a backlash should he replace the popular Maresca at Stamford Bridge, with fans planning a protest against the running of the club. While this is not directly aimed at him, there appears to be a sense of frustration that the Blues are not targeting a more experienced for and are instead opting for a BlueCo yes man.

His experience coaching in English football is limited, having had a temporary spell as Derby boss and 18 months at Hull City. Chelsea will be his first Premier League job.

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