Liam Rosenior has emerged as the leading contender to become Chelsea’s next head coach following the club’s decision to part ways with Enzo Maresca, sources have told ESPN.
Chelsea confirmed Maresca’s departure on Thursday, with sources indicating that the move followed a breakdown in the Italian coach’s relationship with senior figures at the club.
Rosenior, currently in charge of Strasbourg, is understood to be at the top of a narrow shortlist. The 41-year-old has reportedly impressed Chelsea’s hierarchy, with Strasbourg owned by BlueCo, the same investment group that completed Chelsea’s takeover in 2022.
Although the search for a permanent replacement is ongoing, several candidates have been ruled out. Marseille head coach Roberto De Zerbi, who was interviewed before Maresca’s appointment in 2024, is not under consideration. Former Chelsea midfielder and Como manager Cesc Fabregas, as well as Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner, are also not being considered.
Chelsea’s academy director, Calum McFarlane, is not in contention for the permanent role but is expected to take charge of the team on an interim basis for Sunday’s Premier League match away to Manchester City. McFarlane is also scheduled to address the media on Friday ahead of the fixture.
Sources said Chelsea remain committed to their existing internal structure, despite it being a source of tension during Maresca’s tenure. The former coach was reportedly at odds with the club’s medical department over player availability and expressed discomfort with the level of oversight, which included detailed technical reviews from a support group involving multiple sporting directors.
Meanwhile, Porto manager Francesco Farioli has also been linked with the vacancy as Chelsea continue discussions over a long-term appointment.
