🔗 Share this article

Liam Rosenior has declared that he has verbally agreed on a contract to take over as Chelsea's new first-team boss. He described the chance to succeed Enzo Maresca at Stamford Bridge as an opportunity he simply could not refuse.

Deal Confirmed Ahead of Formal Contract

Rosenior is transitioning from French side Strasbourg to their partner club Chelsea, following discussions regarding the position. At a press conference in Strasbourg, he remarked, "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 the paperwork is complete."

"Everything is agreed upon and the process will probably be completed in the coming hours. I'm here today because I have great affection for this club and felt it was the right thing to answer questions in person before I embark on my next chapter."

Following Maresca's Exit

After Enzo Maresca's acrimonious exit from Stamford Bridge last week, Rosenior quickly emerged as the frontrunner. However, the move was complicated by the need for BlueCo – the investment vehicle that controls both Chelsea and Strasbourg – to be sensitive to the requirements of the two clubs. Strasbourg are now working to appoint a new manager, with Gary O'Neil among the contenders.

Emotional Goodbye to Strasbourg

Reflecting on his time at Strasbourg, Rosenior said, "The past 18 months have been an incredible pleasure and the highlight of my professional career. I've encountered some wonderful people and built some incredible memories, achieving something special. None of that would have been possible without the support of our ownership and the dedication of our president."

He continued, "I have had approaches from a number of clubs, including Champions League sides, which I have always been open about. I will love this club forever, but I cannot turn down Chelsea."

Tactical Continuity and Staff Moves

Rosenior leaves Strasbourg with the team sitting in seventh place 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 major tactical overhaul from the template established by his predecessor. Chelsea, currently fifth in the Premier League, have a match against Fulham imminent.

Rosenior shared his enthusiasm for the future: "I am incredibly excited about what lies ahead. I have dedicated my life 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 accompany him in the move to Chelsea.