Liam Rosenior, currently the manager of Strasbourg, is on the verge of becoming Chelsea's new head coach, and his past writings as a Guardian columnist offer insights into his perspectives on football and beyond. Rosenior has arrived in London to discuss terms and finalize the deal, following Enzo Maresca's departure from Chelsea on New Year's Day.
During his time as a Brighton defender, Rosenior penned thought-provoking columns for The Guardian on topics ranging from set pieces to Donald Trump. In June 2020, amid rioting in the United States, he wrote an open letter to Trump, employing sarcasm to suggest that the then-president had inadvertently highlighted racism. He has also addressed the importance of cultural shifts and the need for openly gay role models in men's football.
Tactically, Rosenior aims to blend "the beautiful with the practical". He is known for his flexibility and versatility, often adjusting his backline based on the opposition. His approach involves intelligent positioning and control, prioritizing possession and building attacks from the back, even under pressure. Rosenior favors formations like 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3, allowing for unpredictable midfield rotations. He also emphasizes a well-drilled defensive unit and instills a strong work ethic in his players.
At Strasbourg, Rosenior has implemented a playing style that focuses on pressing the opponent and creating numerical advantages. His team is known for its reliance on wingers and quick transitions. He also encourages involving the goalkeeper in the build-up play to create an 11v10 advantage.
Rosenior's potential appointment at Chelsea is seen as a move to align the club's approach with that of Strasbourg, as both clubs are owned by BlueCo. He has a strong understanding of the game and the ability to connect with players, which should help him build strong relationships at Stamford Bridge. Former Derby boss Wayne Rooney has lauded Rosenior and believes he is ready for the Chelsea job.
Rosenior's coaching journey includes time as an assistant to Rooney at Derby County, followed by a stint as Hull City's manager. He guided Strasbourg to a seventh-place finish in Ligue 1 last season, securing qualification for the Conference League. His experience working with young players and implementing progressive tactics aligns with Chelsea's vision.
While Rosenior seems to be the frontrunner for the Chelsea position, BlueCo must also consider Strasbourg's needs and find a suitable replacement before he can officially make the move. In the interim, Calum McFarlane will continue as Chelsea's interim manager. Rosenior is expected to bring his own coaching staff from Strasbourg to Chelsea, further solidifying his influence on the team.
