🔗 Share this article

Liam Rosenior has publicly stated that he has reached a verbal agreement on a contract to assume the role of Chelsea's new first-team boss. He characterized the chance to replace Enzo Maresca at Stamford Bridge as an opportunity impossible to reject.

Agreement Reached Ahead of Formal Contract

Rosenior is transitioning from Ligue 1 club Strasbourg to their partner club Chelsea, after discussions regarding the position. At a press conference in Strasbourg, he noted, "I haven't put pen to paper yet, but I have agreed verbally with Chelsea. This is a unique situation – it's uncommon for someone to make a statement before officially signing."

"Everything is agreed upon and the process will likely be finalized in the coming hours. I'm here today because I care deeply about this club and felt it was the right thing to answer questions in person before I move on."

Following Maresca's Exit

After Enzo Maresca's acrimonious exit from Stamford Bridge last week, Rosenior quickly became the leading candidate. However, the appointment was complicated by the need for BlueCo – the investment vehicle that controls both Chelsea and Strasbourg – to be sensitive to the needs of both clubs. Strasbourg are now working to appoint a new manager, with Gary O'Neil in consideration.

Emotional Goodbye to Strasbourg

Reflecting on his time at Strasbourg, Rosenior said, "The past 18 months have been an incredible pleasure and the best period of my coaching career. I've met some amazing people and created some incredible memories, making history. None of that would have been possible without the support of our ownership and the dedication of our president."

He continued, "I have received interest from several clubs, including Champions League sides, which I have always been transparent about. I will cherish this club for the rest of my life, but I cannot pass up Chelsea."

Seamless Transition and Backroom Team

Rosenior departs from Strasbourg with the team sitting seventh in Ligue 1. He has longstanding relationships with several of Chelsea's sporting directors and is viewed as a bright coaching talent. His appointment is not expected to require a drastic shift in style from the framework established by his predecessor. Chelsea, currently in fifth place in the Premier League, have a match against Fulham imminent.

Rosenior shared his enthusiasm for the future: "I am so thrilled about what lies ahead. I have worked tirelessly to become a coach at a world-class football club. That does bring some sadness for what I am leaving behind. This is an emotional day as it is my last waking up as the Strasbourg manager."

He also confirmed that two of his assistants, Kalifa Cissé and Justin Walker, along with Strasbourg's head of analysis, Ben Warner, will join him in the move to West London.