“Freedom” is the word used by some of the club’s most high-profile players to describe the impact Liam Roney has had on Chelsea since taking charge last month.

Seven wins in nine games, coupled with some high-octane performances – especially after two comeback wins in a week – the Blues have now climbed to fifth in the Premier League, just one point behind fourth-placed Manchester United, while a new narrative is taking place at Stamford Bridge: the “release” of the club’s most expensive talent.

“[Enzo] Maresca gave us an identity; he was good for all of us,” Fernandez told ESPN Argentina.

“With the arrival of a new coach [Liam Rosenior]a change occurred; he gave each of us a lot of confidence that we were doing well. Things haven’t changed much; he just works differently and we’re really happy with the results and improving the level of play.

“The game plan hasn’t changed much. Liam [Rosenior] Gives us more freedom in the final third but we already have a base [Enzo] Maresca. In the last few meters, he gave us the freedom to express ourselves. “

These were the comments made by Chelsea vice-captain Enzo Fernandez after his late goal against West Ham United.

The Argentinian has been a mainstay in the Blues’ midfield since signing from Benfica and has enjoyed a dramatic resurgence in form under the ‘Rosenior Revolution’.

While Enzo Maresca’s tactical set-up is often labeled “rigid” and “mechanical” by fans and players alike, Ronniol emphasizes passion and intensity – a shift that was evident in last week’s 3-1 win over Wolves.

‘Unstoppable’ at his best: Why Liam Roniol’s impact at Chelsea is perfect for Cole Palmer

Cole Palmer has missed most of the season with a groin injury but was included in the starting 11 against Wolves and made history after 38 minutes.

The Englishman made history by becoming the first player in English football history to score three hat-tricks in the first half and in his post-match interview, Palmer was full of praise for his new manager and the immediate impact he has had on Chelsea.

“It’s been great living under Liam and he’s given us all confidence,” he began.

“He lets us be ourselves and play freely. So, I’m sure when I get healthy, you’re going to see the best of me.”

“He and the whole staff have given us confidence on the training field and in our game strategy. I really like it.”

Cole Palmer struggled to maintain consistency earlier in the season under the previous strict regime but immediately thrived under new leadership.

Talking about the positive impact of Palmer gradually overcoming the injury, the coach publicly stated: “Palmer likes to play football, I like to watch him play… I hope he enjoys football.”

This newfound freedom not only rewrites the record books, it could reignite the Blues’ season and continue to showcase Liam Rogniel’s positive impact at Chelsea.

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Tactical anarchy: How does Ronnie Orr’s fluidity unlock Chelsea’s potential? Are Chelsea players really “imprisoned”?

One may have to agree in allowing free expression of oneself.

A section of Chelsea supporters believe that despite Maresca’s efficiency, he doesn’t exactly fit Chelsea’s recruitment model or the profile of players he uses, which is why Liam Rogniol’s impact on Chelsea has been so significant.

Even in the Abramovich era, Chelsea’s sporting directors rarely signed players purely because they fit the manager’s system. Instead, players are recruited primarily based on their talent and potential.

In this sense, Chelsea need a coach who can shape their system around the team’s strengths – something that is arguably what Ronniol is starting to do.

Maresca’s problem from a boardroom perspective is that his system, while impressive, can never be fully optimized because the team isn’t specifically built for it.

At the same time, the individual qualities of the players are constrained by a structure that does not suit them, effectively “imprisoning” their freedom.

This mismatch inevitably affects confidence, leads to frustration within the squad, and leads to inconsistent performances – especially when defending in the lower blocks, which often requires individual creativity and freedom to break through.

There is every reason to believe Maresca is a top manager, while still feeling he is not the ideal fit for Chelsea.

Likewise, one can acknowledge his ability while also arguing that Ronnie Orr might be a better fit for this current World Championship squad.

Improvements in performances from the likes of Palmer, Joao Pedro, Enzo Fernandez and Andre Santos since Maresca’s departure, coupled with public comments from key players, have highlighted the impact Liam Roniol has had on Chelsea.

Main photo

Credit: Imago/APL

Record date: February 10, 2026