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Liam Rosenior has revealed that he has reached a verbal agreement on a contract to become Chelsea's new head coach. He described the chance to replace Enzo Maresca at Stamford Bridge as an opportunity too good to turn down.

Agreement Reached Ahead of Official Signing

Rosenior is transitioning from French side Strasbourg to their partner club Chelsea, following discussions regarding the position. At a press conference in Strasbourg, he noted, "I haven't put pen to paper yet, but I have reached a verbal understanding with Chelsea. This is a different situation – it's uncommon for someone to make a statement before the paperwork is complete."

"Everything is settled and the process will likely be finalized in the coming hours. I'm here today because I have great affection for this club and felt it was the right thing to answer questions in person before I embark on my next chapter."

Following Maresca's Exit

After Enzo Maresca's contentious exit from Stamford Bridge last week, Rosenior quickly emerged as the leading candidate. However, the appointment was complicated by the need for BlueCo – the investment vehicle that controls both Chelsea and Strasbourg – to be sensitive to the needs of the two clubs. Strasbourg are now seeking to finalize a new manager, with Gary O'Neil in consideration.

Emotional Goodbye to Strasbourg

Reflecting on his time at Strasbourg, Rosenior said, "The past 18 months have been an absolute joy and the best period of my coaching career. I've met some wonderful people and created some unforgettable memories, achieving something special. None of that would have been possible without the support of our ownership and the dedication of our president."

He continued, "I have received interest from several clubs, including top European sides, which I have always been transparent about. I will love this club for the rest of my life, but I cannot turn down Chelsea."

Seamless Transition and Backroom Team

Rosenior departs from Strasbourg with the young squad sitting seventh in Ligue 1. He has longstanding relationships with several of Chelsea's sporting directors and is considered a bright coaching talent. His appointment is not expected to require a major tactical overhaul from the template established by his predecessor. Chelsea, currently fifth in the Premier League, have a fixture against Fulham imminent.

Rosenior expressed his enthusiasm for the future: "I am incredibly excited about what lies ahead. I have worked tirelessly to become a coach at a top-level football club. That does bring some sadness for what I am leaving behind. This is an emotional day as it is my last waking up as the Strasbourg manager."

He also stated that two of his assistants, Kalifa Cissé and Justin Walker, along with Strasbourg's head of analysis, Ben Warner, will join him in the move to Chelsea.