Chelsea FC have dismissed manager Liam Rosenior following a run of poor results that derailed the club’s push for a top-four finish.
The decision was taken on Wednesday evening, a day after the Blues suffered a 3–0 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League. The loss marked Chelsea’s fifth consecutive league game without a win or goal, leaving them seventh on the table and jeopardising their hopes of qualifying for the UEFA Champions League.
Rosenior, who joined from RC Strasbourg Alsace in January to replace Enzo Maresca, spent less than four months in charge despite signing a five-and-a-half-year contract. He recorded 11 wins in 23 matches across all competitions during his brief tenure.
Confirming the development, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported that the club had parted ways with Rosenior with immediate effect.
In a statement, Chelsea acknowledged Rosenior’s “integrity and professionalism” but said the decision was necessary due to performances falling short of expectations. The club added that it would begin a process to identify a long-term managerial solution.
Assistant coach Calum McFarlane has been appointed interim manager for the remainder of the season. He previously took temporary charge earlier in the campaign following Maresca’s exit, overseeing a draw against Manchester City and a defeat to Fulham FC.
Despite Chelsea’s struggles in the league, Rosenior guided the team to the FA Cup semi-finals, recording four victories against lower-league opposition.
McFarlane’s first task will be a crucial FA Cup semi-final clash against Leeds United at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, with a place in the final at stake.
