It’s uncommon to kick off a new year as the manager of a Premier League team that’s both in the Champions League and competing for a top-four finish. However, Chelsea has experienced a tumultuous management situation over recent years. After achieving success last season by winning the European Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup, Manager Enzo Maresca has parted ways with the club by mutual agreement. This marks the search for Chelsea’s seventh manager since 2020 (including an interim), and there are already potential top candidates in line.
Here’s a look at some options Chelsea is mulling over to succeed Maresca.
### Liam Rosenior, Strasbourg
Rosenior, who is already connected with the Blueco network that funnels players to Chelsea, is a leading candidate according to reports from The Athletic. Chelsea’s current player Andrei Santos is the only one who has previously played for Strasbourg, making this consideration more relevant. Rosenior is seen as a valuable option due to his understanding of player development, which could allow Chelsea’s young talents to benefit from his guidance. Although his current team sits eighth in Ligue 1 and has faced challenges recently, his familiarity with the Chelsea system could facilitate a smoother transition.
### Filipe Luis, Flamengo
Filipe Luis has emerged as a promising managerial talent after a successful spell with Flamengo. His team performed well at the Club World Cup and is in contention for both the league title and Copa Libertadores in 2025. Luis’s previous experience as a player at Atletico Madrid and working with players like Jorginho may enhance his ability to manage at Chelsea. His tactical style, which emphasizes possession, could be a natural continuation of what was initiated under Maresca.
### Cesc Fabregas (Como)
With Como vying for a Champions League spot, Cesc Fabregas seems to be on the verge of a major managerial opportunity. The former Chelsea midfielder, previously linked with other clubs, could be a top candidate should he consider leaving Como mid-season. Chelsea needs a firm decision and cannot afford to appoint an interim manager, which might complicate Fabregas’s loyalty to Como.
### Frank Lampard, Coventry
Could third time be the charm for Frank Lampard at Chelsea? Since managing the club twice since 2019, he’s now poised to take Coventry City back to the Premier League. However, the allure of returning to Chelsea may be greater than the challenges of maintaining Coventry’s Premier League status.
### Oliver Glasner, Crystal Palace
As a rising managerial talent at Crystal Palace, Glasner is another candidate worth considering. Having won a European title with Eintracht Frankfurt and managed successfully at a high level, he would bring experience and adaptability to Chelsea. However, his availability in January could pose challenges for the club.
#### Fan Take
This news is pivotal for soccer fans as it reflects Chelsea’s ongoing struggle to find stability amidst a sea of managerial changes. The decision and appointment made in the coming weeks could shape not only Chelsea’s immediate future but also the broader landscape of the Premier League as clubs seek to enhance their competitive edge.
