Four Bold Managerial Targets Chelsea Must Pursue as Rosenior's Future Hangs in the Balance

"I understand their frustration," Liam Rosenior said regarding the growing discontent directed at him from Chelsea supporters. "It's my responsibility as head coach and manager of this football club. The buck stops with me. I have thick skin and I understand why the fans are upset. I'm equally frustrated with the performances we've been delivering."

The embattled 41-year-old was addressing questions about his future at Stamford Bridge following Tuesday night's dismal 3–0 loss to Brighton & Hove Albion—the club's fifth consecutive league defeat without finding the net and a seventh loss in eight matches—having acknowledged just days prior that he needs results "now."

Time is a scarce resource at Chelsea and it's already dwindling for Rosenior, who was only brought in during January. The former Strasbourg boss is the club's ninth manager over the last decade and could soon pave the way for a tenth should the Blues maintain their current downward spiral.

Here are four managers Chelsea should consider if they decide to move on from Rosenior.

Andoni Iraola

Andoni Iraola departs Bournemouth with his reputation at its peak. The Spaniard joined the Vitality Stadium setup in 2023 and has since earned widespread recognition for his tactical sharpness and high-energy style, helping the Cherries consistently cope with the departure of key players in the transfer window. The confirmation of his exit at season's end is a significant setback for the south coast club.

Bournemouth are currently pushing for European qualification for the first time in their history, and Iraola deserves the most credit for that achievement. The 43-year-old has cultivated a winning mentality on the south coast, underpinned by attacking, free-flowing football designed to thrill fans and overwhelm opponents.

Iraola's track record certainly makes him an attractive candidate for numerous top positions this summer. Initially anticipated to take charge at Athletic Club—the team he supports and played for—a return to the Basque Country now seems unlikely, leaving the possibility of remaining in the Premier League very much open.

Whether Iraola can handle the heightened expectations and pressures that accompany managing Chelsea remains to be seen, but the outgoing Bournemouth boss could undoubtedly transform on-pitch performances with his brand of high-tempo football.

Filipe Luís

Just hours after steering Flamengo to an 8–0 victory back in early March, Filipe Luís was abruptly dismissed by the Brazilian giants, despite delivering extraordinary results. The former Chelsea defender had led Flamengo to their fourth Copa Libertadores crown the previous year, building a reputation as one of the most exciting young coaches in the game before his unexpected dismissal.

Flamengo's loss could prove to be Chelsea's gain. The 40-year-old, who spent a single season at Stamford Bridge, is now a free agent and eagerly looking ahead to his next venture. European clubs had already been linked with securing Luís's services before his Flamengo exit, and such speculation is bound to resurface this summer.

Luís's growing reputation rests on solid groundwork. Flamengo were a well-organized and adaptable side, yet attacking, progressive football was always the priority for the South American powerhouse. Luís also knows how to win silverware, averaging a trophy every 14 games throughout his tenure with Flamengo.

Reports indicate Chelsea held talks with Luís before appointing Rosenior, suggesting the Brazilian could well be near the top of their list of potential replacements.

Cesc Fàbregas

Another ex-Chelsea player among the most highly regarded young managers in world football is Cesc Fàbregas. The former midfielder's footballing intelligence was always evident throughout his playing days, five of which were spent at Stamford Bridge, and the Spaniard's profound understanding of the game has helped him reshape Italian newcomers Como.

The Serie A outfit have invested heavily since earning promotion to the top tier, but Fàbregas's tactical intelligence and strong man-management skills have ensured the money has been well spent. Como's rise is largely attributable to their 38-year-old coach, who currently has them in contention for Champions League qualification and guided them to the Coppa Italia semifinals.

Fàbregas has drawn criticism from Italy's traditionalists, yet remains unapologetically stylish and eager to discuss his tactical philosophy at every opportunity. He is in contention for Serie A's Manager of the Season award, and few outside Italy could dispute the honor as Como continue to flourish.

Fàbregas certainly knows what it means to represent a top club. The former Arsenal, Barcelona and Chelsea player is composed under pressure—a polished communicator capable of managing the intensity of the spotlight. Chelsea would be foolish to overlook a coach of such tremendous promise.

Xabi Alonso

Xabi Alonso fulfilled a dream by being appointed Real Madrid manager last summer. However, he was given just seven months at the Santiago Bernabéu, and the Spaniard may need to set aside sentimentality when choosing his next destination—Bayern Munich appearing content with Vincent Kompany at the helm and Liverpool reportedly reluctant to part ways with Arne Slot despite a turbulent season.

The 44-year-old's standing has taken a hit following his early Madrid exit, but securing a new role should present little difficulty given his remarkable transformation of 2023–24 domestic double winners Bayer Leverkusen. Celebrated for playing expansive and tactically adaptable football on the way to a historic first-ever Bundesliga title for the German club, he will have no shortage of top opportunities.

Chelsea may be a challenging proposition, but it remains an enormously appealing one. An elite squad, seemingly bottomless financial resources and the prospect of competing for major honors could tempt Alonso, who has a thorough understanding of the Premier League's demands from his time at Liverpool.

Yet another promising Spanish coach with an outstanding résumé and enormous potential, Alonso is sure to feature among the leading candidates should Chelsea move away from Rosenior.