Chelsea Confirms Liam Rosenior as their new head coach

Chelsea have confirmed the appointment of Strasbourg manager Liam Rosenior as their new head coach, signalling a fresh chapter for the club as they place long-term trust in one of England’s most highly regarded young coaches.

The 41-year-old has signed a five-and-a-half-year contract at Stamford Bridge, with the option of a further season, following the departure of Enzo Maresca on New Year’s Day. The length of the deal underlines Chelsea’s commitment to continuity and development as they look to build sustained success both domestically and in Europe.

Rosenior will get his first glimpse of his new side on Wednesday evening when Chelsea face Fulham at Craven Cottage in the Premier League. While he will watch that fixture from the stands, he is set to officially begin work on Thursday, overseeing his first training session ahead of Saturday’s FA Cup third-round clash with Charlton Athletic, which will mark his first match in charge.

Speaking after his appointment was confirmed, Rosenior expressed deep pride and gratitude at being handed one of the most prestigious roles in English football.

“I am extremely humbled and honoured to be appointed head coach of Chelsea Football Club,” he said. “To be entrusted with this role means the world to me and I want to thank all involved for the opportunity and faith in undertaking this job. I will give everything to bring the success this club deserves.”

Chelsea’s interim head coach, Calum McFarlane, revealed he had already spoken briefly with Rosenior following the agreement and spoke warmly about his incoming successor.

“I wouldn’t be giving him any advice because he is a really accomplished coach,” McFarlane said. “I am here to support him but I won’t be giving him any advice.”

Earlier on Tuesday, Rosenior had all but confirmed the move during his final press conference as Strasbourg manager, stating that he had “agreed verbally” to take over at Chelsea. He described the opportunity as one he simply could not refuse.

“I cannot turn down this opportunity to join an incredible club, an incredible squad who are Club World Cup champions,” he said, highlighting both the scale of the challenge and the ambition of the group he is inheriting.