Chelsea Five-Man Manager Shortlist | Soccer Laduma

Chelsea determined to find Enzo Maresca replacement. Photo: Gallo Images/Eddie Keogh

Chelsea recently announced their decision to part ways with manager Enzo Maresca and, with a search for a new head coach now underway, several candidates are believed to have already been shortlisted as the club weighs up its next move.

Maresca first took charge at Stamford Bridge in 2024,  arriving after a successful spell at Leicester City, where he guided the Foxes back to the Premier League. 

The Italian, who previously worked under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, replaced Mauricio Pochettino and even led Chelsea to Club World Cup success in 2025.

Despite that achievement and securing Champions League qualification last season, domestic form proved a major concern. Chelsea have won just eight of their 19 Premier League matches in the current campaign, drawing six and losing five. 

A recent 2-2 draw with Bournemouth appears to have been a turning point, with Maresca’s future reportedly thrown into doubt immediately after the final whistle. Less than 48 hours later, the club confirmed his departure, amid reports of internal tensions and disagreements behind the scenes.

In the short term, the Blues have turned to continuity. Under-21 head coach Calum McFarlane has been placed in interim charge and will oversee preparations for Sunday’s high-profile league clash against Manchester City, a daunting assignment for the caretaker boss. McFarlane is also expected to handle media duties ahead of the fixture.

The formbook points at Man City (who are hot on the heels of log leaders Arsenal) as clear favorites but depending on which Chelsea team take the field on Sunday at the Etihad, this could be a mouthwatering EPL clash. Manchester City are unbeaten in their last five against Chelsea. Bet now on Soccer 13, Soccer 10, Mega 10 Jackpot and more at tab.co.za.

Behind the scenes, attention has already shifted to potential long-term replacements. Reports suggest Chelsea’s hierarchy has been drawing up a shortlist, with several names under consideration.

According to The Mirror, Strasbourg head coach Liam Rosenior has emerged as the leading candidate for the role. 

It is believed the Chelsea board admire Rosenior’s tactical approach, man-management skills and personality, viewing him as a strong fit for the club’s long-term vision. His current club Strasbourg, is also owned by BlueCo, Chelsea’s parent company, which could smooth negotiations if the Blues decide to pursue him formally.

The same reports claim Rosenior’s reputation for developing young talent aligns closely with the recruitment model favoured by owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali. While he may lack the global profile of some former Chelsea managers, it is said that the hierarchy believes his communication skills could help him win over supporters. 

Elsewhere, it has been said that other candidates have at least been discussed. Porto coach Francesco Farioli is reportedly viewed as an option, while Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola and Fulham’s Marco Silva are not thought to be completely ruled out.

Managers such as Thomas Frank, Kieran McKenna and Roberto De Zerbi — all previously interviewed before Maresca’s appointment — are again being mentioned in speculation, although some reports suggest Chelsea are keen to avoid another confrontational personality following recent friction.

For now, Chelsea’s focus remains on navigating the immediate challenge against the Citizens while the club continues to evaluate its options. 

With Rosenior widely regarded as the frontrunner and other names hovering in the background, the coming days could prove decisive in shaping the next chapter at Stamford Bridge.

Related tags