Liam Rosenior has been officially confirmed as the new head coach of Chelsea Football Club, describing the move as 'one of the proudest days of my life'.
Rosenior's Path to Stamford Bridge
The 41-year-old Englishman was appointed on Tuesday, January 7, 2026, succeeding Enzo Maresca who left the club after a breakdown in relations with the hierarchy. Rosenior arrives from French side Strasbourg, also owned by the BlueCo consortium, where he secured a seventh-place finish and European football last season.
He has signed a long-term contract at Stamford Bridge, committing his future to the club until 2032. In his first interview on the club's website, Rosenior expressed his excitement and focus on winning. 'Proud. Excited. Can’t wait to start,' he said. 'It’s a lot of hard work in my life to get to this point... I want to win at this amazing football club.'
A Daunting Start and Familiar Faces
Rosenior will watch from the stands for Chelsea's Premier League match against Fulham on Wednesday. His first match in charge will be an FA Cup third-round tie against Charlton Athletic on Saturday.
However, his first game at Stamford Bridge presents a monumental challenge: a Carabao Cup semi-final first leg against league leaders Arsenal. 'First game at home against Arsenal in a cup semi, that’s what I live for,' Rosenior stated, embracing the pressure.
The new coach has the advantage of prior relationships with some squad members. He worked with Liam Delap at Hull City and has known goalkeeper Robert Sanchez since he was 16. But one player received special praise.
Special Praise for 'Outstanding' Andrey Santos
Rosenior was keen to highlight the talent of Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos, whom he managed last season during the player's loan spell at Strasbourg. Santos joined Chelsea from Vasco da Gama for £18 million in January 2023 but has found minutes limited this season behind Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo.
'Obviously, I had Andrey Santos last year,' Rosenior said. 'He’s got two beautiful children... and he had an outstanding performance at Manchester City.' The new boss emphasised his philosophy of knowing players personally to improve them individually and collectively.
Santos has previously spoken glowingly of Rosenior, calling him 'amazing' and stating their relationship is 'perfect', suggesting the managerial change could reignite the 21-year-old's Chelsea career.
Rosenior concluded by looking to the future: 'Coaching is about serving others and I’m looking forward to not just that [Arsenal] game, I’m looking forward to many, many good, good days to come.'
