Liam Rosenior has confirmed that he has verbally agreed to take over as the next manager of Premier League club Chelsea, though he has yet to sign a formal contract, the 41-year-old announced on Tuesday. The current head coach of Ligue 1 side Strasbourg said the opportunity was one he “could not turn down” and expects the move to be finalized in the coming hours. Rosenior, who has impressed in France and with previous managerial spells in England, is set to replace Enzo Maresca, who departed Stamford Bridge on New Year’s Day amid tensions with the club’s hierarchy. 

Speaking at a press conference, Rosenior described the switch as exciting but emotional, expressing gratitude for his time at Strasbourg and acknowledging interest from other clubs before agreeing to join Chelsea. Although negotiations are not yet complete, both sides have agreed on terms, with Rosenior likely to bring some of his assistants with him. Chelsea, currently navigating a mid-season managerial change, could have their new boss in charge as soon as this weekend’s fixtures if the contract is signed formally.