Chelsea appoint Liam Rosenior as head coach after Enzo Maresca's departure

Chelsea FC have appointed 41-year-old Liam Rosenior as their new head coach on a six-and-a-half year contract through 2032, following the abrupt departure of Enzo Maresca on New Year's Day 2026. Maresca left after a string of poor results, with just one win in seven Premier League games, leaving Chelsea 15 points behind leaders Arsenal. Rosenior joins from French club Strasbourg, where he was seventh in Ligue 1, and had previously managed Hull City and Derby County. He will take charge for Chelsea's FA Cup third-round tie against Charlton Athletic on Saturday, January 10, 2026. Rosenior, who played in England for 16 years, acknowledged the step up from Strasbourg to Chelsea, calling it a "world class" opportunity he has always dreamed of. Chelsea's statement highlighted his ability to build teams with a clear playing style and set high standards, promising him the backing to compete at the top level. This marks Chelsea's fourth permanent managerial appointment since BlueCo took ownership in 2022.