The Athletic journalist David Ornstein has named the candidate who many believe “is going to be a Chelsea manager” amid growing doubts surrounding Enzo Maresca’s future at Stamford Bridge.
The past week has seen fresh drama bubble up around Chelsea’s head coach, with tension behind the scenes becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.
Concerns over Maresca’s position intensified further following reports — also from Ornstein — that Manchester City are monitoring him as a potential successor to Pep Guardiola, who could depart the Etihad Stadium in the summer.
While such links would normally be seen as a compliment, the timing has only added to the sense of instability at Chelsea. Maresca’s post-match behaviour after the midweek win over Cardiff did little to ease concerns either.
In what felt like an awkward Pep Guardiola impression, the Chelsea boss claimed he was “very happy” with the situation — despite his body language suggesting quite the opposite. It was an unsettling moment that raised more questions than answers.
Tension Behind the Scenes
There is a growing sense that things are not right between Maresca and the Chelsea boardroom. Whether it’s disagreements over direction, squad usage, or expectations, the tension is becoming increasingly visible.
Looking ahead, it is difficult to imagine Maresca still being in charge next season. A summer departure — either via dismissal or a mutual agreement — feels far more likely than a long-term continuation.
Which brings us to Chelsea’s apparent contingency plans.
Speaking on The Athletic Podcast, with his comments later cited on X, Ornstein revealed that Liam Rosenior is already being widely viewed as a future Chelsea manager.
“There are many people who are already saying Liam Rosenior at Strasbourg is going to be a Chelsea manager in the future, whether it’s in the immediate or medium or longer term. And that shows their contingency plans, like all well organised top clubs will be in place in one way, shape or form.”
The mention of Strasbourg is particularly notable given Chelsea’s multi-club model and their close links to the French side. Rosenior’s name has quietly been circulating for some time, and Ornstein’s words add real weight to those rumours.
🗣️ @David_Ornstein: "There are many people who already saying Liam Rosenior at Strasbourg is going to be a Chelsea manager in the future, whether it's in the immediate or medium or longer term.
And that shows their contingency plans, like all well organized top clubs will be in… pic.twitter.com/YS5uSn4Owk
Some managerial links feel speculative. Others feel inevitable. This one firmly falls into the latter category.
When you read the reports, assess the club structure, and consider the direction Chelsea appear to be heading in, Rosenior’s name makes increasing sense. Whether the move happens immediately or further down the line, the groundwork appears to already be in place.
Rosenior replacing Maresca at Chelsea this summer? It would be a brave person who put money against it.
Predictions
Fixtures and Results
Transfers
Injuries
Chelsea Academy
Chelsea Women