Liam Rosenior has revealed that he has reached a verbal agreement on a contract to assume the role of Chelsea's new manager. He characterized the chance to take over from Enzo Maresca at Stamford Bridge as an opportunity too good to turn down.
Deal Confirmed Ahead of Official Signing
Rosenior is making the move from Ligue 1 club Strasbourg to their partner club Chelsea, following discussions regarding the position. At a press conference in Strasbourg, he commented, "I haven't signed the contract yet, but I have agreed verbally with Chelsea. This is a different situation – rarely does anyone to make a statement before officially signing."
"Everything is settled and the process will likely be finalized in the coming hours. I'm here today because I care deeply about this club and felt it was the right thing to address questions in person before I move on."
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 balance the needs of the two clubs. Strasbourg are now working to appoint a new manager, with Gary O'Neil in consideration.
A Fond Farewell to Strasbourg
Reflecting on his tenure at Strasbourg, Rosenior said, "The past 18 months have been an absolute joy and the highlight of my coaching career. I've met some amazing people and created some incredible memories, making history. None of that would have been possible without the investment of our ownership and the hard work of our president."
He continued, "I have had approaches from a number of clubs, including top European sides, which I have always been transparent about. I will cherish this club for the rest of my life, but I cannot turn down Chelsea."
Tactical Continuity and Backroom Team
Rosenior leaves Strasbourg with the team sitting in seventh place in Ligue 1. He has longstanding relationships with a number of Chelsea's sporting directors and is viewed as a bright coaching talent. His appointment is not expected to require a major shift in style from the template established by his predecessor. Chelsea, currently in fifth place in the Premier League, have a fixture against Fulham imminent.
Rosenior expressed his excitement for the future: "I am incredibly excited about what lies ahead. I have worked tirelessly to become a coach at a world-class football club. That inevitably brings some sadness for what I am leaving behind. This is an poignant day as it is my last day 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.
