Chelsea's search for a new head coach has hit an early stumbling block, with primary target Francesco Farioli reportedly ready to reject any approach from the west London club.
Farioli's Firm Commitment to Porto
The Blues parted ways with Enzo Maresca on Thursday, January 1, 2026, sparking an immediate hunt for his successor. According to The Daily Telegraph, Porto's highly-rated Italian manager, Francesco Farioli, swiftly emerged as a candidate.
However, the 36-year-old has no intention of leaving the Portuguese giants. Portuguese publications Record and O Jogo state that no contact has been made between Chelsea and Farioli, and the coach himself is not interested in a move to England at this stage of his career.
Farioli has personally assured Porto president – and former Chelsea manager – Andre Villas-Boas that he is content at the Dragao Stadium. His commitment is underscored by a spectacular start to the season, having led Porto to the summit of the Primeira Liga, remaining undefeated with 15 wins from 16 games.
The Financial and Managerial Landscape
Any move for Farioli would have come at a significant cost, with Chelsea required to pay a compensation fee in the region of £13 million to release him from his contract. The Italian only took charge at Porto in the summer of 2025, following spells at Nice and Ajax.
With Farioli seemingly out of the running, the early favourite for the Stamford Bridge vacancy is Liam Rosenior, currently impressing at Strasbourg. The bookmakers' odds reflect this, with Rosenior priced at 7/4.
The list of other potential candidates includes:
- Cesc Fabregas (4/1)
- Oliver Glasner (4/1)
- Xavi Hernandez (8/1)
- Marco Silva (10/1)
In the immediate term, assistant head coach Willy Caballero could be asked to lead the team for their upcoming Premier League fixture against Manchester City on Sunday if no appointment is finalised.
Maresca's Departure and Chelsea's Stance
Chelsea confirmed Maresca's departure in an official statement, acknowledging his successes in winning the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup. The club currently sits fifth in the Premier League, 15 points behind leaders Arsenal.
The statement read: "With key objectives still to play for across four competitions including qualification for Champions League football, Enzo and the Club believe a change gives the team the best chance of getting the season back on track."
The search for a new manager now intensifies, with the club aiming to find a leader capable of revitalising their campaign and securing a coveted top-four finish.
