Chelsea have reportedly identified Strasbourg head coach Liam Rosenior as their leading candidate to succeed Enzo Maresca following the Italian’s shock departure from Stamford Bridge, MySportDab Report.
Maresca officially left Chelsea on Thursday after a complete breakdown in his relationship with the club’s hierarchy, bringing an abrupt end to weeks of speculation over his future.
The former Leicester City boss is believed to have felt he could no longer continue amid growing disagreements over recruitment strategy, squad management and tactical direction.
According to reports, Chelsea are keen to avoid a prolonged managerial search and are instead targeting a swift appointment in a bid to restore stability.
The Telegraph claims Rosenior has emerged as the frontrunner, with the 40-year-old currently in charge of Ligue 1 side Strasbourg — a club also owned by Chelsea’s parent company, BlueCo.
Rosenior earned plaudits for his work at Hull City before joining Strasbourg in the summer of 2024. He impressed during his debut season in France, leading to him rejecting interest from Premier League clubs and signing a contract extension.
His familiarity with BlueCo’s multi-club ownership model has further strengthened his candidacy, and internal figures are understood to view him as a natural fit for Chelsea’s long-term vision.
However, it remains unclear whether a deal can be concluded in time for Chelsea’s upcoming Premier League clash against Manchester City on Sunday.
Meanwhile, fresh details have emerged surrounding Maresca’s exit. Reports suggest he held multiple rounds of talks with Manchester City this season amid uncertainty over Pep Guardiola’s long-term future.
Maresca is believed to have informed Chelsea of the discussions, as required by a clause in his contract.
The timing of his departure, just days before Chelsea’s visit to the Etihad, adds extra intrigue to an already compelling fixture as the Blues begin a new chapter without their head coach.
