Former Manchester United and England midfielder Paul Scholes has publicly questioned Chelsea's decision to appoint Liam Rosenior as their new head coach, suggesting a club legend would have been a wiser selection.
Scholes Questions Chelsea's Managerial Appointment
Speaking on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast, Scholes expressed his belief that Cesc Fabregas would have been a 'better choice' for the Stamford Bridge hot seat than the newly-installed Liam Rosenior. The criticism comes just days after Chelsea confirmed Rosenior's arrival on a six-year deal this past Tuesday.
The Blues turned to the 41-year-old following the departure of Enzo Maresca on New Year's Day. Maresca's exit followed a poor run of form where Chelsea won only two of their last nine matches, coupled with a reportedly deteriorating relationship with the club's hierarchy.
Rosenior's Background and Fabregas' Credentials
Rosenior, whose previous managerial experience includes spells at Derby County, Hull City, and Strasbourg, was a frontrunner for the role partly due to his existing connection with Chelsea's ownership group, who also control the French club Strasbourg.
In their official statement, Chelsea expressed confidence that Rosenior 'has the ability to get the best out of this squad quickly'.
However, Scholes has cast doubt on this logic, instead advocating for Fabregas. The Spanish maestro, who won two Premier League titles with Chelsea as a player, is currently impressing in his first senior managerial role at Italian side Como, having taken charge in 2023.
'I actually like what he's doing and think he might have been a better choice for Chelsea than Liam Rosenior,' Scholes stated, before clarifying that he did not see Fabregas as a candidate for the vacant Manchester United job.
Immediate Aftermath and Rosenior's First Words
Chelsea played out a 1-1 draw with Manchester City in their first match post-Maresca, with U21 coach Calum McFarlane taking temporary charge. McFarlane will also oversee the upcoming west London derby against Fulham before Rosenior formally begins his tenure.
Upon his appointment, Rosenior struck a humble and determined tone. 'I am extremely humbled and honoured to be appointed Head Coach of Chelsea Football Club,' he said. 'This is a club with a unique spirit and a proud history of winning trophies. My job is to protect that identity and create a team that reflects these values.'
He emphasised teamwork, unity, and a connection with the fans as the foundation for future success, vowing to give everything to return the club to the pinnacle of the game.
Despite this optimistic start, Scholes' pointed comments have introduced an early narrative of scepticism surrounding Chelsea's latest strategic move, contrasting the board's faith in a relatively unproven manager with the potential of a beloved former star making his name abroad.
