Liam Rosenior has been sacked by Chelsea less than 24 hours after publicly criticising his players following the Premier League defeat to Brighton
James Smailes Head of All Out Rugby League and Yorkshire sport at Reach plc
17:45, 22 Apr 2026
Liam Rosenior
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Liam Rosenior(Image: Andrew Kearns - CameraSport via Getty Images)
Liam Rosenior has departed Chelsea less than 24 hours following the Premier League loss to Brighton. The Blues announced on Wednesday evening that they had parted ways with Rosenior, with Calum McFarlane stepping in as caretaker manager.
McFarlane has previously served as interim boss at Chelsea this season, leading the side during the period after Enzo Maresca's exit in January. He is now poised to take charge of the squad this weekend when they meet Leeds United in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley Stadium.
The move from Chelsea follows Rosenior's public criticism of the Chelsea squad after the loss to Brighton at the Amex Stadium, a result which leaves the club sitting seventh in the Premier League standings. The Blues had suffered five consecutive league defeats for the first time in a century and had failed to find the net during that run.
It means former Hull City manager Rosenior lasted only four months at the helm, despite having signed a six-year contract.
A statement from Chelsea read: "Chelsea Football Club has today parted company with Head Coach Liam Rosenior.
"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 mid-way 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.
"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.
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"As the Club works to bring stability to the Head Coach position, we will undertake a process of self-reflection to make the right long-term appointment."