Chelsea FC have dismissed head coach Liam Rosenior after just over three months in charge following a sharp decline in results, with Calum McFarlane appointed as interim manager until the end of the season.
The decision came after Tuesday’s 3-0 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion, which extended Chelsea’s losing streak to five consecutive Premier League games without scoring. The club has also lost seven of its last eight matches in all competitions, leaving them seventh in the table and outside the Champions League qualification places.
Rosenior initially enjoyed a strong start, winning six of his first seven matches after taking over mid-season. However, results deteriorated significantly, including a heavy 8-2 aggregate defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.
In an official statement, Chelsea thanked Rosenior and his coaching staff for their service.
“On behalf of everyone at Chelsea FC, we would like to place on record our gratitude to Liam and his staff for all their efforts during their time with the Club,” the statement read. It added that he had “conducted himself with the highest integrity and professionalism.”
The club also explained that the decision was driven by recent performances falling below expectations.
“This has not been a decision the Club has taken lightly, however recent results and performances have fallen below the necessary standards with still so much more to play for this season,” it said.
Calum McFarlane will now lead the team as interim head coach, supported by existing backroom staff, as Chelsea aim to secure European qualification and progress in the FA Cup.
Reports indicate that club officials held internal discussions after the Brighton defeat, with co-owner Behdad Eghbali involved in deliberations over Rosenior’s future.
Chelsea are expected to appoint a permanent head coach in the summer as part of a wider rebuild following a disappointing campaign.
