Chelsea officially announces new head coach: 41-year-old Rossenil, a rookie manager, signs a long-term contract until 2032.

Post-Abramovich Chelsea is characterized by long contracts, applying to both players and now coaches. After Maresca’s departure on New Year’s Day, Chelsea announced on January 6 that their new head coach would be Rossenil, Rooney’s protégé and the manager of Ligue 1’s Strasbourg. Since Strasbourg functions somewhat like Chelsea’s satellite club, appointing Rossenil as the new head coach to replace Maresca marks a significant promotion for him, moving from the affiliate to the main club.

Apart from choosing Rossenil, a relatively inexperienced coach with only a year and a half in Ligue 1 among the top five leagues, Chelsea has also secured him with a contract lasting until 2032. This shows how highly Burley rates Rossenil—are they aiming to create a Chelsea version of Ferguson or Wenger?

Rossenil’s coaching career began as an assistant at Derby County, where he worked under Rooney. From November 2022 to June 2024, he managed Hull City, achieving 27 wins, 28 draws, and 23 losses, with a win rate of only 34.6%. Since last season, he has been managing Strasbourg in Ligue 1, marking his first role in a top European league, with a record of 32 wins, 14 draws, and 17 losses, boasting a 50.8% win rate.

Judging by his coaching experience, Rossenil is still at a beginner level, yet Chelsea clearly has great faith in him! Signing a long-term contract until 2032 means if results are poor, the club could face paying compensation for many years!