Chelsea have stepped up efforts to appoint a new head coach following the sudden exit of Enzo Maresca, with Strasbourg manager Liam Rosenior emerging as the leading candidate for the role.
Maresca, 45, parted ways with the Premier League side on Thursday after just one season in charge, amid reports of internal disagreements with the club’s hierarchy and ownership. His departure marks another reset for the Stamford Bridge outfit as they continue to fine-tune their long-term project.
According to a report by BBC Sport on Friday, Rosenior, 41, is currently the frontrunner to succeed the Italian tactician, although Chelsea are said to be keeping their options open and considering other candidates.
Rosenior presently manages French Ligue 1 club Strasbourg, who share the same ownership as Chelsea under the BlueCo investment consortium that acquired the London club in 2022. This connection is believed to have strengthened the Englishman’s chances, with sources suggesting he enjoys strong internal support at Stamford Bridge.
The former Hull City boss has impressed with his progressive coaching style, and speculation surrounding his potential move to west London continues to gather momentum. In anticipation of a possible departure, Strasbourg are reportedly already exploring replacement options.
Meanwhile, Porto head coach Francesco Farioli has also been mentioned as one of the names under consideration as Chelsea assess the managerial market.
The club’s owners are expected to maintain their data-driven and forward-thinking recruitment strategy, with a strong emphasis on appointing a coach who aligns with their long-term vision.
Chelsea had previously explored several high-profile managerial options before appointing Maresca in 2024, including Roberto De Zerbi, then of Marseille, Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna, and Thomas Frank, who has since taken over at Tottenham Hotspur.
Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola and Fulham boss Marco Silva have also been linked with the Chelsea job in the past, though it remains unclear whether either is part of the current shortlist.
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