Chelsea have begun the process of appointing a new head coach following the departure of Enzo Maresca, with Strasbourg manager Liam Rosenior emerging as the leading contender for the role. Maresca, 45, left his position on Thursday after just one season in charge amid reported internal tensions with Chelsea’s hierarchy and ownership. As reported by BBC Sport on Friday, Rosenior, 41, is understood to be the frontrunner to succeed Maresca, although sources stress that other candidates remain under consideration. With speculation growing over his potential move to west London, Strasbourg are already understood to be considering possible replacements should Rosenior depart. Porto head coach Francesco Farioli has also been mentioned as a possible option as Chelsea assesses the market.

Source: Punch January 02, 2026 07:19 UTC