Liam Rosenior is said to be the top candidate to become Chelsea’s next head coach after the club’s decision to part company with Enzo Maresca, sources have told ESPN.
Chelsea announced Maresca’s departure on Thursday, with sources revealing that the decision followed a breakdown in the Italian manager’s relationship with key figures within the club.
Strasbourg coach Rosenior is understood to be leading the race from what has been described as a limited shortlist. The 41-year-old has reportedly impressed club officials, with Strasbourg owned by BlueCo — the same ownership group that completed Chelsea’s takeover in 2022.
Although the recruitment process is still ongoing, a number of potential candidates have already been ruled out. Marseille boss Roberto De Zerbi, who was interviewed prior to Maresca’s appointment in 2024, is no longer under consideration. Former Chelsea midfielder and current Como manager Cesc Fabregas, along with Crystal Palace head coach Oliver Glasner, are also not being considered.
Academy director Calum McFarlane, who is due to address the media on Friday ahead of Chelsea’s Premier League fixture against Manchester City, will not be in the running for the permanent role. However, he is expected to oversee the team for Sunday’s visit to the Etihad Stadium while talks continue regarding a long-term successor.
Chelsea are believed to be maintaining their current internal operational structure, despite it being a source of friction during Maresca’s time at the club. The former head coach was reportedly dissatisfied with the club’s medical department, feeling that certain players’ minutes were being restricted unnecessarily.
Maresca was also said to be uneasy about the level of supervision at Chelsea, receiving extensive technical reports after each match from a support team that includes five sporting directors. The Italian is understood to have sought more independence in managing the squad.
Meanwhile, Porto manager Francesco Farioli has also been mentioned as a possible option as Chelsea continue to assess candidates ahead of making a permanent appointment.
