Liam Rosenior: Chelsea’s new boss wants the young squad to emulate Manchester United’s class of ’92

Rosenior watched from the stands as Chelsea lost 2-1 to Fulham on Wednesday, leaving the Blues in eighth place in the table with only one win in nine Premier League matches.

There were chants against the monarchy during the match and a banner reading “BlueCo out”. Hours after Rosenior’s appointment the previous day, the Chelsea Supporters’ Association published a critical poll – aimed at the club’s leadership rather than the new coach.

More than half of those who responded said they doubted Chelsea’s ability to achieve success in the next three to five years under the current system, while a similar proportion lacked confidence in the ownership decision-making process.

Chelsea’s model, built around young players on long contracts and overseen by five sporting directors – Paul Winstanley, Laurence Stewart, Sam Jewell, Dave Fallows and Joe Shields – along with influential owner Behdad Eghbali, has come under the microscope.

Maresca’s willingness to leave mid-season prompted a managerial change which the club had not planned to make until the end-of-season review.

However, Rosenior believes in the club’s approach, having worked under the same structure at Strasbourg.

“I have a very good professional relationship with the players,” he said. “I understand what they want, where they want to go and how they want to get there. That helps me achieve what they want. That’s why I’m here. I believe we can be successful. It’s not just about me – and we will see in time if that is true.”

“The project is about winning. It is about winning games and bringing trophies to Chelsea.”

Asked if he would have a say in transfers, Rosenior added: “I didn’t get a single player that I didn’t want to bring to Strasbourg – not one. These guys have been fantastic for me. The process is what it should be at every club.”

The former Fulham full-back was born in west London and wants to create a positive environment despite the recent friction.

“Being a head coach, you talk about systems and tactics, and that’s 10% of the job,” he said. “The mission is to create spirit, energy and culture.”

Rosenior still lacks experience, as he coached Derby County and Hull City before joining Strasbourg in July 2024, and has yet to win any major title.

Previous Chelsea managers – Jose Mourinho, Carlo Ancelotti, Thomas Tuchel and Antonio Conte – have all arrived with numerous accolades.

Asked if his appointment was disappointing compared to those big names, Rosenior replied: “Everyone starts from somewhere. There is a great quote from Mourinho – one of my heroes.”

“He said it took him 20 years to become an overnight success. It’s the same for anyone. You’re not a name until you’re a name.”

His message to his supporters was clear as he added: “Judge by what you see, not what you hear. Judge by what you see on the pitch. Don’t judge my press conferences – I’m not winning any games here. Give me, my staff and the players the chance to prove we are worthy. Judge us and be fair.”

“If the performances aren’t good enough, I’ll be the first to say so. I’m the person most responsible for our performance – but give us a chance.”