Chelsea have received a surprising piece of advice as they search for a new permanent manager: make a sensational approach for former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp.
Cole's 'Mental' Suggestion for Chelsea
The Stamford Bridge club are on the hunt for a successor to Enzo Maresca, whose departure was confirmed on New Year's Day 2026. While Strasbourg's Liam Rosenior is considered an early front-runner, former Chelsea star Joe Cole has proposed an audacious alternative.
Speaking to Paddy Power, Cole admitted his idea was a 'mental one' but insisted the club should still try. 'I know it’s a mental one but Jurgen Klopp, I know he probably won’t even consider it because it’s Chelsea and he’s Liverpool, but you just never know,' Cole stated.
He elaborated on his reasoning, arguing that top clubs must aim for the very best. 'If your main aim as a football club is to win trophies and you have the money, you go and speak to the top, top boys,' he said. 'I know it seems like it’s pie in the sky, but if you don’t have that mindset then you’re always banking on developing the next best manager.'
Klopp's Firm Stance on an English Return
The major obstacle to any such move is Klopp's own, repeatedly stated position. The German has been out of club management since his emotional exit from Liverpool at the end of the 2023/24 season, taking up a role as Red Bull's head of global soccer in January 2025.
Upon announcing his Liverpool departure in January 2024, Klopp was unequivocal about his future in England. 'What I know definitely – I will never, ever manage a different club in England than Liverpool, 100 per cent. That’s not possible,' he declared. 'My love for this club, my respect for the people is too big. I couldn’t. There’s no chance.'
He recently reiterated this stance in an interview, confirming that a theoretical return to coaching in England would only be with Liverpool, while also noting he does not miss day-to-day management.
Rosenior Remains a Strong Contender
While floating the Klopp idea, Joe Cole also spoke highly of the more realistic candidate, Liam Rosenior. He praised the former defender's football knowledge and profile, suggesting he fits the recent Chelsea model.
'I’ve known Liam a long time... Obsessive about football, fits the bill in terms of where Chelsea have gone with their last few managers, young and something to prove,' Cole remarked.
Chelsea's hierarchy now faces a clear choice between pursuing an improbable, blockbuster appointment or focusing on a promising, up-and-coming coach like Rosenior to lead the team forward following Maresca's exit.
