Wayne Rooney believes Liam Rosenior deserves the opportunity to become Chelsea’s next manager, describing the Strasbourg boss as one of the best coaches he has ever worked alongside and backing him to succeed at the highest level of English football.
Rosenior has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Enzo Maresca at Chelsea, with talks between the club and the 41-year-old coach understood to be at an advanced stage. The Englishman arrived in London on Sunday night for discussions, as Chelsea’s owners — who also control French club Strasbourg — look to appoint a new head coach.
Strong Derby County Connection Shapes Rooney’s Endorsement
Rooney and Rosenior worked closely together at Derby County between 2021 and 2022, a period marked by financial turmoil and points deductions. Rosenior served as Rooney’s assistant during that challenging spell and later stepped up as interim manager following Rooney’s departure.
Speaking on the BBC’s Wayne Rooney Show, the former England captain said Rosenior’s coaching ability stood out immediately.
“He’s taken chances, and hopefully that pays off because I think Liam is as good a coach as I’ve ever worked with,” Rooney said.
“His attention to detail and how he approaches the day-to-day work is right up there with the very best.”
‘Incredible Coach’ Who Helped Shape Rooney as a Manager
Rooney credited Rosenior with playing a crucial role in his own development as a coach and leader.
“Liam was so important for me,” Rooney added.
“I was more of the manager, dealing with players and everything else, while Liam was incredible in his coaching ability. I learned a lot from him.”
Since leaving Derby, Rooney has managed DC United, Birmingham City and Plymouth Argyle, while Rosenior has continued his coaching rise across England and Europe.
Rosenior’s Coaching Journey: From EFL to European Football
After his interim spell at Derby, Rosenior moved on to manage Hull City, narrowly missing out on the Championship play-offs before being dismissed. Despite that setback, his reputation remained strong, and in 2024 he took over at Strasbourg, where his work has impressed Chelsea’s ownership group.
Rosenior’s last involvement in the Premier League came as a player with Brighton in 2017, following spells with Fulham, Reading and Hull City. While his playing career was solid rather than spectacular, his coaching path has been methodical and deliberate.
He began in the EFL, worked with Brighton’s under-23s, and spent three formative years learning under senior managers at Derby.
‘He’s Done His Apprenticeship’
Rooney is adamant Rosenior is ready for the Chelsea job and believes the timing is crucial.
“If you don’t take it now, then you’re never going to take it,” Rooney said.
“He’s done his apprenticeship, he’s put the work in, and he’ll have no doubts that he’s capable of doing the job.”
Rooney also highlighted Rosenior’s personality, saying he has the authority needed to manage a top-level dressing room.
“He’s also got a side to him where you don’t want to cross him. That’s important at a big club like Chelsea.”
A Potential Milestone for English Coaches
Rosenior’s appointment would also represent a significant moment for English managers, who are currently underrepresented at elite clubs.
Only Eddie Howe (Newcastle), Scott Parker (Burnley) and Sean Dyche (Nottingham Forest) are English managers in the Premier League at present.
“For young English coaches, it would be massive,” Rooney said.
“We don’t really see English managers at big clubs. Liam could be leading the way.”
Chelsea Search Continues After Maresca Exit
Chelsea are seeking stability following the departure of Enzo Maresca, who left after 18 months in charge following disagreements with the club’s ownership. Rosenior’s familiarity with the ownership model — having already worked under the same group at Strasbourg — is believed to be a major factor in his candidacy.
If appointed, Rosenior would face immediate pressure but also the chance to establish himself among the Premier League’s elite coaches.
Leave a Reply