Chelsea have officially named Liam Rosenior as Enzo Maresca’s successor, ending days of speculation following the Italian’s New Year’s Day departure.

The 41-year-old joins from Strasbourg, the other club within the BlueCo ownership group owned by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, after verbally agreeing terms earlier this week before the transfer was officially confirmed on Tuesday.

Roniol accepted the appointment after a farewell in France, where he formally addressed the media out of respect for Strasbourg and their supporters before Chelsea made the announcement official, before completing his move to Stamford Bridge.

“I couldn’t turn down this opportunity to join an incredible club, an incredible team, who are Club World Cup winners,” the new Chelsea manager told a news conference.

“I’m here because I care about this club [Strasbourg] I feel it’s only right to answer your questions personally here today before moving on. “

Enzo Maresca’s replacement: From Strasbourg success to Stamford Bridge

Ronniol joined Strasbourg in July 2024 and made an impact quickly. During his tenure, he led the club to seventh place in Ligue 1 and a first European title in eight years.

He has led Strasbourg to the top of their divisional league group this season, underscoring his reputation as one of Europe’s most promising young coaches.

Looking back on his time in France, the new Chelsea manager describes it as the highlight of his career.

“The past 18 months have been the happiest and best time of my career,” he said. “I will love this club for the rest of my life but I cannot say no to Chelsea.”

Chelsea have confirmed that Enzo Maresca’s successor Rossenior has signed a long-term contract until 2032, with the club citing his alignment with the team’s long-term vision and focus on development as key factors in the appointment.

“Chelsea Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Liam Roniol as head coach of the men’s team,” the club said in a statement.

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Familiar faces join Chelsea’s new head coach London

Ronnie Orr will not arrive at Stamford Bridge alone. Several members of his Strasbourg backroom staff will also make the move, including first-team coach Khalifa Cisse, assistant head coach Justin Walker and head of analytics Ben Warner.

This continuity is expected to help Chelsea’s new head coach settle in quickly as he begins work with Chelsea’s young squad during a difficult phase of the season.

Sources close to the club claim that Ronnie Orr has been working closely with Chelsea’s sporting department behind the scenes ahead of his first game in charge.

Immediate test against Fulham

Ronnie Orr takes over a Chelsea side that currently sit fifth in the Premier League table and are in contention for Champions League qualification.

His first challenge comes on Wednesday 7 January against Fulham – the club he represents as a player.

Fans will now be watching closely to see how quickly the new Chelsea manager can make his mark on the team, as the club enters a crucial stage of the season with solid momentum and expectations.

Main photo

Credit: IMAGO/PsnewZ

Record date: January 6, 2026