The Rise of Liam Rosenior: A Bright Future as Chelsea's New Manager
Premier League legend Wayne Rooney offers a glowing endorsement of Liam Rosenior, as the Strasbourg boss is on the brink of becoming Chelsea's new manager. Explore how Rosenior's coaching prowess and journey have impressed one of football's greats.
With Liam Rosenior on course to become Chelsea's new manager, following the shock New Year's Day departure of Enzo Maresca, Premier League legend Wayne Rooney has given a resounding endorsement. The retired ex-Manchester United captain knows the Strasbourg boss pretty well already, having been assisted by him during an 18-month spell at Derby County in 2021 and 2022.When Rooney rocked up in Derby five years ago for his first ever managerial gig, he was given Rosenior as his right-hand man. The former Fulham defender had already been with the club since 2019 and was promoted from first-team coach to assistant manager upon Rooney's appointment. Of the two of them, Rosenior was the more experienced coach and helped his new boss get to grips with the Rams."He's taken chances, and hopefully that pays off because I think Liam is as good a coach as I've ever worked with," Rooney said on his sel-titled BBC podcast.It's high praise considering Rooney was coached by the likes of Carlos Queiroz, Rene Meulensteen and Mike Phelan during his time as a Manchester United player."His detail, how he approaches the day-to-day, he's as good as I've worked with. Liam was so important for me. He was incredible in his coaching ability. I was more of the manager and dealing with players and everything. So I learned a lot from him from that point of view and then I think he's done a great job as a whole. He's also got a side which you don't want to cross him as well."Watch The Wayne Rooney Show on BBC Sport YouTube & iPlayer, listen on BBC Sounds. Episodes drop every Friday & Monday morning.It feels only a matter of time before Rosenior is unveiled at Stamford Bridge, moving from one BlueCo club to another. He was formerly in charge of Hull City, almost guiding the Tigers into the Championship play-offs in 2023-24 but harshly sacked due to a difference in football philosophy to Hull's owner. Rosenior has only otherwise led Strasbourg, but an overall lack of managerial experience shouldn't be a cause for concern among Chelsea fans demanding the best of the best, according to Rooney."If he goes in there, he won't disappoint," Rooney insisted. "He's been waiting for an opportunity like this. If you don't take it now, then you're never going to take it. And I think he's done his apprenticeship, he's done his work to try and get to that job."So he'll have no doubts in his mind that he's capable of doing that job. And hopefully, very soon, hopefully we hear that he is the manager, because for young English coaches I think it's massive. We don't really see English managers at big clubs. So he'd be leading the way for us."Looking for smarter football bets? Get expert previews, data-driven predictions & winning insights with GOAL Tips on Telegram. Join our growing community now!Rosenior was appointed by Strasbourg to replace Patrick Vieira in the summer of 2024, after the Arsenal legend left following a 13th-place finish in Ligue 1. He took that team up to seventh in his debut season in charge, all the while getting to grips with a new country and language, which meant qualifying for the UEFA Conference League. Even before that first season was out, Strasbourg offered Rosenior a contract extension, underlining their delight with his achievements.This season, he took Strasbourg to top of the Conference League standings with five wins from their six games and again has them seventh in Ligue 1, chasing an even higher finish. That said, it's almost certain he now won't see out the season with the club he has grown really strong feelings for.Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingTime is running out for Rosenior to be through the door in time to take charge of Chelsea's Premier League derby clash with Fulham on Wednesday night, which points to Calum McFarlane continuing - the Under-21 boss earned his stripes with Sunday's result against Manchester City.But if things are finalised quickly, it's feasible that Rosenior could be in place for the FA Cup third round tie against Charlton Athletic on Saturday. That would be a much kinder first game than the Catabao Cup semi-final first leg against Arsenal a few days later.
A Strong Endorsement from Wayne Rooney
With Liam Rosenior poised to take the reins as Chelsea's new manager, Wayne Rooney, who worked closely with him at Derby County, lauds Rosenior as one of the best coaches he's ever collaborated with. Rooney credits Rosenior's attention to detail, coaching abilities, and stern approach to leadership as pivotal in their successful partnership.
Rosenior's Coaching Journey
Transitioning from a playing career to coaching, Rosenior initially assisted at Derby before managing Hull City and then excelling at Strasbourg. Despite limited managerial experience, Rooney believes Rosenior's dedication and readiness make him a suitable candidate for the Chelsea role, emphasizing his capacity to lead the team effectively.
Success at Strasbourg
Rosenior's impact at Strasbourg, where he elevated the team's performance in both the league and the UEFA Conference League, showcases his managerial acumen. Following impressive results and a contract extension offer, it's evident that Rosenior has built a strong foundation at the French club, making him a promising prospect for Chelsea.
The Future at Stamford Bridge
As fans eagerly await Rosenior's potential appointment at Chelsea, his imminent arrival could signal a new era for English managers at top clubs. With Rooney's backing and Rosenior's proven track record of success, there is optimism surrounding his ability to guide Chelsea to greater heights and blaze a trail for aspiring coaches.









