Chelsea have moved swiftly to begin the search for a new head coach following the departure of Enzo Maresca, with Strasbourg manager Liam Rosenior now emerging as the early favourite to take charge at Stamford Bridge.
Enzo Maresca, 45, left his role on Thursday after only one season in charge, with his exit coming amid reports of internal disagreements with the club’s hierarchy and ownership.
The Italian, who previously led Leicester City back to the Premier League, departs as Chelsea once again prepares to recalibrate its long-term project.
According to BBC Sport, Rosenior, 41, is currently the frontrunner to replace Maresca, although it is understood that Chelsea are still assessing other options before reaching a final decision.
“The Englishman currently manages Ligue 1 side Strasbourg, who are owned by BlueCo the same investment consortium that purchased Chelsea in 2022, a link that is believed to strengthen his candidacy,” BBC Sport said.
Rosenior, formerly in charge of Hull City, is thought to enjoy strong internal support at Stamford Bridge, a factor that has further fuelled speculation over a possible move to west London.
With uncertainty growing, Strasbourg are already believed to be drawing up contingency plans and considering potential replacements should their manager depart.
Elsewhere, Porto head coach Francesco Farioli has also been mentioned as Chelsea continues to survey the market.
The club’s owners are expected to stick to their data-driven and progressive recruitment strategy, targeting a coach who aligns with their broader vision rather than opting for a short-term fix.
Before appointing Maresca in 2024, the club considered a number of high-profile names, including Roberto De Zerbi of Marseille, Kieran McKenna at Ipswich Town and Thomas Frank, who has since left Brentford to take charge at Tottenham.
Andoni Iraola of Bournemouth and Marco Silva at Fulham have also been linked in the past, though it remains unclear whether either is part of the current shortlist.
