Chelsea appoint Liam Rosenior as head coach on shock 6.5-year contract

Chelsea confirmed on their official website that the English manager has signed a 6.5-year contract, running until 2032. Rosenior had earlier announced his decision to leave Strasbourg in a press conference. While the length of the deal surprised many, the move itself was widely expected after English media reported the story in recent days.

On the annoucement through Chelsea official website, Liam stated: "I am extremely humbled and honoured to be appointed Head Coach of Chelsea Football Club. This is a club with a unique spirit and a proud history of winning trophies. 

"My job is to protect that identity and create a team that reflects these values in every game we play as we continue winning trophies. To be entrusted with this role means the world to me and I want to thank all involved for the opportunity and faith in undertaking this job. I will give everything to bring the success this club deserves.

"I believe deeply in teamwork, unity, togetherness and working for one another, and those values will be at the heart of everything we do. They will be the foundation of our success".

Rosenior, 41, is a former professional footballer who played as a full-back. He began his career at Bristol City and later played for clubs including Fulham, Reading and Hull City before retiring at Brighton. He moved into coaching in 2022 at Hull City. In 2024, he joined Strasbourg and guided the club to European qualification for the first time in 19 years.

Strasbourg and Chelsea are both owned by BlueCo and are often described as sister clubs. Several Chelsea-linked players have featured for Strasbourg, including Kendry Páez, Mamadou Sarr and Mike Penders. Rosenior’s departure has caused concern among some Strasbourg supporters, as the team are still competing for another European place.

Strasbourg currently sit seventh in Ligue 1 with 24 points, six points behind the Conference League qualification spot. Right now, French media report that former Wolves manager Gary O’Neil is expected to take over at Strasbourg.

Rosenior is set to take charge of Chelsea for their next match against his former club Fulham on 8 January.