Rosenior emerges top candidate to succeed Maresca at Chelsea
In a dramatic start to 2026, Liam Rosenior has emerged as the frontrunner to replace Enzo Maresca as Chelsea head coach following the Italian’s sudden departure on New Year’s Day. Maresca’s exit, confirmed by the club on Thursday, came after a rapid deterioration in his relationship with senior officials, reportedly exacerbated by his links to the Manchester City job and disagreements over the club’s restrictive medical and oversight protocols.
Rosenior, the 41-year-old current manager of Strasbourg, is highly regarded by Chelsea’s ownership group, BlueCo, which also owns the French club. His success in Ligue 1 and his seamless integration into the multi-club model make him a “continuity candidate” who aligns with Chelsea’s data-driven philosophy. While search remains open and Porto’s Francesco Farioli has been linked, several prominent names including Roberto De Zerbi, Cesc Fabregas, and Oliver Glasner have reportedly been ruled out.
As discussions for a permanent appointment continue, Chelsea Under-21 coach Calum McFarlane has been tasked with leading the senior team for Sunday’s daunting trip to the Etihad Stadium to face Manchester City. McFarlane, who joined from Southampton last summer, faced the media on Friday to address the immediate transition. Despite the upheaval, Chelsea’s leadership remains committed to their internal structure, seeking a progressive manager who can operate effectively within their established technical support framework
