Liam Rosenior has been appointed as the new head coach of Chelsea, signing a six-year contract until 2032 to replace Enzo Maresca. The 41-year-old, who will lead his first game in the FA Cup third round against Charlton Athletic, faces the significant challenge of winning over Chelsea fans amid recent protests against the club's owner, BlueCo. Supporters chanted against BlueCo during a recent defeat to Fulham and are planning a formal protest before the next Premier League game against Brentford on January 17. Rosenior is the fifth permanent head coach since BlueCo acquired the club in 2022.

Addressing the media, Rosenior acknowledged the high expectations from Chelsea fans, stating, "The club is ingrained in the history of winning trophies, especially recent history. Winning titles, winning the Champions League and the fans should have those demands and those standards." He emphasized his belief that success will be achieved through hard work, determination, and spirit, recalling the physical intensity of previous Chelsea teams. Rosenior stated that his job is to "win games of football" and ensure the team "represents them [the fans]."

Rosenior expressed strong confidence in his abilities and the club's future. "I'm not arrogant, I'm very good at what I do," he asserted, adding, "The potential for this club is limitless, and I won't limit limitlessness." He previously managed Derby County on an interim basis, spent two years at Hull City, and an 18-month period at Strasbourg, another BlueCo-owned club in Ligue 1. Reflecting on his time at Strasbourg, he shared, "When I went in at Strasbourg I was a joke in the media and they said that my team would finish last. I was a nobody from England and we finished three points off the Champions League places. The noise is just noise."

Concerns have been raised regarding BlueCo's operating practices and potential interference, following Maresca's departure, which was reportedly due to frustrations over decision-making. However, Rosenior, who has experience with BlueCo's structure, denied he would be a 'yes man' for the ownership. "I don't think it is possible to ever be in this job and not be your own man," he stated. "I will make the decisions at this football club, that is why I have been brought in." He reiterated his conviction that he can be very successful at Chelsea, focusing on winning the next game and harnessing the talent and engagement within the squad.