A Premier League giant is moving closer to appointing a new head coach after Chelsea held face-to-face talks with Liam Rosenior in London, following Enzo Maresca’s shock departure on New Year’s Day.
The 41-year-old Englishman, currently managing Ligue 1 side Strasbourg, has emerged as the leading candidate to take over the vacant role. Talks are expected to take place within the next 24 hours as all parties look to reach an agreement swiftly.
Rosenior travelled from France on Sunday afternoon accompanied by club president Marc Keller and sporting director David Weir. Meetings are scheduled with senior decision-makers to discuss terms and the overall project moving forward.
Strasbourg are part of the BlueCo ownership group, which also controls the Premier League club, allowing negotiations to progress smoothly between connected parties.
Despite progress, sources close to the French club insist Rosenior will not formally accept the role until a suitable replacement is identified for their own head coach position.
Calum McFarlane Continues as Chelsea Caretaker
In the meantime, Under-21s coach Calum McFarlane remains in temporary charge. He oversaw the Blues’ 1-1 draw against Manchester City on Sunday — his first senior match as a head coach.
McFarlane is expected to lead Monday’s training session at Cobham, unless told otherwise. He revealed that Chelsea officials informed him the new permanent head coach could arrive “on Monday,” widely understood to be a reference to Rosenior.
Reports have also linked McFarlane with a possible move to Strasbourg should Rosenior take over at Chelsea, though he played down the speculation.
“That’s the first I’ve heard of that. I have no idea,” McFarlane said.
Rosenior Responds to Chelsea Links
Rosenior, who was appointed Strasbourg head coach in July 2024, addressed the Chelsea rumours cautiously after the weekend’s fixtures.
“There is nothing concrete. I don’t know what will happen,” Rosenior said.
“I love this club more than many people think. These have been the best 18 months of my professional life.”
He added that while his future remains uncertain, his affection for Strasbourg is genuine.
“Strasbourg is a fantastic club with fantastic people. I adored the players, the fans, and everyone here.”
Decision Expected Soon
With Chelsea eager to stabilise their season and Strasbourg pushing to protect their own interests, a final decision on Liam Rosenior’s Chelsea appointment is expected imminently.
If confirmed, Rosenior would become Chelsea’s new permanent head coach, marking a rapid rise following his dismissal from Hull City just months before joining Strasbourg.
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