Liam Rosenior has been appointed as the new head coach of Chelsea Football Club, signing a contract that extends until 2032. The club officially announced the appointment on January 6, 2026. Rosenior, who previously managed Ligue 1 side RC Strasbourg, replaces Enzo Maresca. He began working with the squad after their league match against Fulham on January 7 and is set to be in the dugout for the FA Cup third-round match against Charlton Athletic.
In a statement released by Chelsea, Rosenior expressed his humility and honor at being appointed head coach, acknowledging the club's unique spirit and history of winning trophies. He emphasized his commitment to protecting the club's identity and creating a team that embodies its values in every match.
Rosenior stated, "This is a club with a unique spirit and a proud history of winning trophies... My job is to protect that identity and create a team that reflects these values in every game we play as we continue winning trophies". He further added, "To be entrusted with this role means the world to me and I want to thank all involved for the opportunity and faith in undertaking this job. I will give everything to bring the success this club deserves". Rosenior also conveyed his deep belief in teamwork, unity, and working together, stating that these values will form the foundation of the team's success.
Prior to joining Chelsea, Rosenior had a successful stint at RC Strasbourg, leading the French club to European qualification for the first time in 19 years. He also held managerial positions at Hull City and Derby County in England. Rosenior also stated that his time at Strasbourg had been the most rewarding period of his career. "The last 18 months have been a joy and the best of my professional career,” Rosenior said. “I have met some incredible people, created incredible memories and made history".
Rosenior will bring his assistants, Kalifa Cisse and Justin Walker, with him from Strasbourg to Chelsea. Ben Warner has also joined from the Ligue 1 club as first-team analyst. Furthermore, Calum McFarlane has been promoted from Under-21s lead to the role of first-team coach. Harry Hudson will now take charge of Chelsea’s Under-21s. Ben Roberts will be the goalkeeper coach, and Bernardo Cueva will continue to lead the set-piece department.
Chelsea's expectations and ambitions remain high, with a continued focus on player development. The club believes that Rosenior has the ability to quickly get the best out of the squad and has been given the responsibility and backing to ensure Chelsea continues to compete at the top level in all competitions.
Rosenior's appointment marks the fourth permanent boss since BlueCo took control of the London club in 2022. Despite having no Premier League coaching experience, Rosenior was widely considered the frontrunner for the position, especially since Strasbourg and Chelsea share the same ownership under BlueCo. Rosenior had also confirmed reaching a verbal agreement with Chelsea in an earlier news conference for Strasbourg. "I'm here because I care about this club and I felt it was right to answer your questions physically here today before I move on,” he said. Rosenior also mentioned having interest from many clubs, including Champions League clubs, but stated he could not turn down Chelsea.
