Chelsea have dismissed head coach Liam Rosenior after less than four months following a historic losing run in the Premier League.
Chelsea have sacked head coach Liam Rosenior after less than four months in charge following a poor run of results that damaged the club’s hopes of qualifying for next season’s UEFA Champions League. The decision came after five consecutive Premier League defeats without scoring, Chelsea’s worst league scoring drought since 1912.
Rosenior arrived at Stamford Bridge in January after leaving Strasbourg and signed a long-term deal running until 2032. His appointment followed the departure of former manager Enzo Maresca, with Chelsea backing the former Hull City coach to lead a new phase at the club.
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Despite a positive early start, results declined sharply in recent weeks. Rosenior won 11 of his 23 matches across all competitions, but Chelsea lost seven of their last eight games in all competitions before his dismissal.
The final blow came after Tuesday’s 3-0 Premier League defeat away to Brighton & Hove Albion. Chelsea failed to register a strong response during the match and slipped to seventh place in the league standings.
After the Brighton defeat, Rosenior described Chelsea’s display as “indefensible” and “unacceptable” as frustration grew among travelling supporters. Fans were heard chanting against the manager during and after the game.
In a statement, Chelsea said the decision was not taken lightly. The club thanked Rosenior for his professionalism but said recent performances had fallen below the standards expected.
“Liam has always conducted himself with the highest integrity and professionalism following his appointment midway through the season,” Chelsea said.
“This has not been a decision the club has taken lightly, however recent results and performances have fallen below the necessary standards with still so much more to play for this season.”
Chelsea have appointed assistant coach Calum McFarlane as interim manager until the end of the season. McFarlane previously oversaw the team briefly earlier this year after Maresca’s exit.
His first match in charge will come on Sunday when Chelsea face Leeds United at Wembley Stadium in the FA Cup semi-final. The competition now offers Chelsea a final opportunity to win silverware this season and secure a stronger finish.
Sources close to the club say Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola, Fulham head coach Marco Silva and former Borussia Dortmund boss Edin Terzic are among names being considered for the permanent role. Chelsea are expected to begin their search immediately.
Rosenior’s dismissal means Chelsea have now made another managerial change during a season marked by instability. The club’s ownership group faces growing pressure from supporters to deliver clearer leadership and better results on the pitch.
Chelsea remain in contention for European qualification, but their margin for error is now small. The next managerial appointment is likely to be seen as critical for both short-term recovery and long-term direction.
