Image Credits: Imago Images
The BlueCo ownership model that connects Chelsea and French side Strasbourg continues to generate headlines across European football.
Strasbourg have been owned by BlueCo—the investment consortium led by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital—since June 2023, when the group that purchased Chelsea in 2022 acquired close to 100% of the French club for approximately €75 million. The multi-club ownership structure has proven both beneficial and controversial, with Strasbourg currently enjoying their most successful season in years, sitting in a European qualification spot in Ligue 1, largely thanks to the steady hand of manager Liam Rosenior.
However, Rosenior’s impressive 18-month stint at the Stade de la Meinau appears set to come to an abrupt end. Following Enzo Maresca departure from Stamford Bridge, reportedly stemming from a major falling-out with Chelsea’s ownership structure after a 2-2 draw with Bournemouth, Rosenior has emerged as the leading candidate to replace the Italian.
The 41-year-old former Hull City boss traveled to London over the weekend to finalize the move according to widespread reports. This development has left Strasbourg scrambling to identify a successor, and according to Sky Sports News, former Liverpool coach Gary O’Neil is now on the club’s shortlist to replace the Chelsea-bound Rosenior.
Sky Sports News reports:
“Gary O’Neil is on the shortlist to replace Chelsea-bound Liam Rosenior at Strasbourg.”
“The 42-year-old also came close to rejoining Wolves after they sacked Vitor Pereira earlier this season. Sky Sports News understands he’s one of three possible candidates that BlueCo, who own Chelsea and Strasbourg, are considering to replace Rosenior at the French club.”
The Englishman has been out of work since being sacked by Wolverhampton Wanderers in mid-December 2024. He has been consistently linked to a whole host of clubs since then, but no move has been forthcoming just yet. O’Neil’s connection to Liverpool dates back to August 2020, when he was appointed as assistant manager to Barry Lewtas for the Reds’ Under-23 squad
Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.