Rosenior linked with Chelsea job after Maresca exit

RC Strasbourg Alsace head coach Liam Rosenior has emerged as one of the candidates being considered to replace Enzo Maresca at Chelsea, according to The Athletic.

The Italian manager was dismissed on Thursday following a poor run of results that saw the Blues record just one Premier League victory throughout December.

Confirming the decision, Chelsea said in a statement: “Enzo and the Club believe a change gives the team the best chance of getting the season back on track.”

Rosenior’s candidacy is viewed as a natural fit given his role at BlueCo-owned Strasbourg and his status as an English-speaking head coach familiar with the club’s ownership structure. The former Hull City manager is reportedly “expected to be among the candidates” under consideration.

Rosenior has impressed since taking charge of Strasbourg in the summer of 2024 following Patrick Vieira’s departure, guiding the Alsatians to seventh place in Ligue 1 while also leading their Conference League group.

Maresca leaves Chelsea with the club fifth in the Premier League standings, having secured only six points from six league matches in December. The Blues’ slump has left them 15 points adrift of leaders Arsenal and searching for renewed momentum.

The 45-year-old Italian departs less than six months after lifting the Club World Cup at the end of his first season at Stamford Bridge. His tenure also included a top-four league finish and triumphs in both the Conference League and Club World Cup last season, achievements that earned him strong backing from key figures at the club.

Chelsea acknowledged that Maresca had impressed senior decision-makers, including sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart, as well as co-owner Behdad Eghbali.

However, with “key objectives still to play for across four competitions including qualification for Champions League football,” the club opted for a managerial change in a bid to stabilise results and revive their season.

Nigerians can now invest ₦2.5 million on premium domains and profit about ₦17-₦25 million. All earnings paid in US Dollars. Rather than wonder, click here to find out how it works.

Join Daily Trust WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You.