Chelsea have confirmed Liam Rosenior as their new head coach on a contract running until 2032. The 40-year-old arrives from Strasbourg, replacing Enzo Maresca at Stamford Bridge.
Rosenior’s stock has risen rapidly after guiding Strasbourg to European qualification for the first time in 19 years during his debut season in France. Before his success in Ligue 1, he held managerial roles in England with Hull City and Derby County.
Chelsea Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Liam Rosenior as head coach of the men’s team.
Welcome to Chelsea, Liam! 🔵
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) January 6, 2026
Speaking at his final press conference as Strasbourg boss, Rosenior admitted the lure of Chelsea was impossible to resist:
“I’ve had interest from many clubs, including Champions League sides, and I’ve always been transparent with Marc Keller and our ownership. I will love this club for the rest of my life, but I cannot turn down Chelsea.”
Both Chelsea and Strasbourg are part of the BlueCo multi-club ownership model, a consortium led by Todd Boehly, Clearlake Capital, Mark Walter, and Hansjörg Wyss.
BlueCo acquired Chelsea in 2022 and added Strasbourg to its portfolio in 2023, mirroring the approach of City Football Group, which owns Manchester City, Melbourne City, Palermo, and others.
On Chelsea’s official website, Rosenior outlined his vision:
“My job is to protect the identity of this club and create a team that reflects those values every time we play. To be entrusted with this role means the world to me. I want to thank everyone involved for their faith, and I will give everything to bring the success this club deserves.”
Chelsea return to action on Wednesday against Fulham at Craven Cottage, though Rosenior will not be on the touchline for that fixture. His first game in charge is expected to be Saturday’s FA Cup third-round tie against Charlton Athletic at The Valley.
