Chelsea's search for a new head coach is intensifying, with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano providing a significant update on the situation at Stamford Bridge.
Rosenior Emerges as Front-Runner for Chelsea Role
According to Romano, Liam Rosenior has become the 'leading candidate' to take over the reins at Chelsea. The club is seeking a replacement for Enzo Maresca, who was dismissed earlier this week following a breakdown in his relationship with the club's hierarchy.
Romano stated on his YouTube channel that conversations are actively progressing to bring the 41-year-old Englishman to west London. A key factor simplifying negotiations is the shared ownership between Chelsea and Rosenior's current club, Strasbourg in France's Ligue 1.
Maresca's departure came after a poor run of form, with Chelsea winning just one of their last seven matches. His final act was missing a press conference after Tuesday's 2-2 draw with Bournemouth.
Linked Candidates Rule Themselves Out of Contention
While Rosenior leads the race, several other names had been linked with the vacant position. However, Romano's update confirms that other potential contenders have publicly distanced themselves from the job.
Andoni Iraola, the Bournemouth manager, used his press conference on Friday to affirm his commitment to the Cherries, stating he is "very happy" at the Vitality Stadium.
Similarly, former Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas, now managing Como, confirmed he is fully focused on his role in Italy and hopes to stay there "as long as possible." Francesco Farioli, named as a candidate in some reports, is also said to be completely committed to his project at Porto.
Rosenior's Managerial Profile and Chelsea's Vision
Romano emphasised that Chelsea's ownership is not looking for a conventional appointment. Instead, they desire an 'elite young coach' to continue a cohesive project that aligns with their vision for Strasbourg.
Rosenior, in only his second full-time managerial role, has impressed at Strasbourg. His previous experience includes a stint at Hull City from November 2022 to May 2024, where he was surprisingly sacked despite being nominated for Championship Manager of the Season. He also had a brief but commendable interim spell at Derby County in 2022, winning seven of his twelve games in charge during difficult circumstances.
With direct talks now underway between the decision-makers at Chelsea and their counterparts at Strasbourg, an appointment could be finalised swiftly, drawing a line under a turbulent period for the club.
