Chelsea have started the search for a new head coach following the exit of Enzo Maresca, with Strasbourg manager Liam Rosenior emerging as the leading contender for the job.
Maresca, 45, left Stamford Bridge on Thursday after just one season in charge, with reports pointing to internal disagreements with the club’s hierarchy and ownership. His departure marks another reset for the club as it continues to shape its long-term project.
According to reports on Friday, Rosenior is currently at the top of Chelsea’s shortlist, although the club is still considering other options. The 41-year-old is presently in charge of Ligue 1 side Strasbourg, a club owned by BlueCo — the same investment group that took over Chelsea in 2022 — a connection believed to strengthen his chances.
Rosenior, a former Hull City manager, is said to have strong internal backing at Stamford Bridge. With speculation over his future growing, Strasbourg are already exploring potential replacements in the event he makes the move to west London.
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Porto head coach Francesco Farioli has also been mentioned as a possible candidate as Chelsea evaluate the market. The club’s owners are expected to stick with their data-driven and progressive recruitment strategy, focusing on a coach who aligns with their long-term vision.
Chelsea had previously explored several high-profile names before appointing Maresca in 2024, including Roberto De Zerbi, Kieran McKenna and Thomas Frank. Other managers such as Andoni Iraola and Marco Silva have also been linked with the role in the past, though it is unclear if they are part of the current shortlist.
