Chelsea sack Liam Rosenior after poor run, Calum McFarlane named interim head coach

LONDON: Chelsea FC have parted ways with head coach Liam Rosenior after just 106 days in charge, following a string of disappointing performances that derailed their push for European qualification.

The club confirmed the decision in an official statement on Wednesday, thanking Rosenior and his staff for their efforts and professionalism during a brief but turbulent spell at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea indicated that the decision was not taken lightly but stressed that performances had fallen below expected standards at a critical stage of the campaign. The club also signalled a broader review process aimed at ensuring long-term stability in the managerial role.

“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. Liam has always conducted himself with the highest integrity and professionalism following his appointment midway through the season. 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. Everyone at Chelsea FC wishes Liam every success in the future”, stated Chelsea in a statement.

Club statement: Liam Rosenior

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) April 22, 2026

“Calum McFarlane will take charge of the team as Interim Head Coach until the end of the season with support from existing Club backroom staff, as we strive to achieve European qualification and progress in the FA Cup,” the statement added.

In the immediate aftermath, assistant coach Calum McFarlane has been appointed interim head coach until the end of the season. He will oversee the club’s remaining fixtures, including a crucial FA Cup semi-final clash against Leeds United at Wembley.

The dismissal comes after a 3-0 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion, which marked Chelsea’s fifth consecutive league loss without scoring — their worst goal drought in over a century.

Rosenior, who had joined from RC Strasbourg Alsace on a long-term deal backed by owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, managed 11 wins in 23 matches across all competitions. Despite a promising FA Cup run, featuring victories over lower-league opposition, league form proved decisive, with the team slipping to seventh place, seven points off the final Champions League spot.

Attention now turns to potential successors, with sources indicating that Andoni Iraola, Marco Silva and Edin Terzic are among the candidates under consideration.

McFarlane, who previously oversaw a draw against Manchester City earlier this season in a caretaker role, faces an immediate challenge to revive Chelsea’s faltering campaign and keep their hopes of silverware alive. (ANI)