Hull City's owner, Acun Ilicali, has publicly shared his thoughts on Liam Rosenior's surprise appointment as Chelsea manager, insisting his former employee's tactical approach is perfectly suited to the Premier League despite sacking him at the MKM Stadium.
A Difficult Decision and Enduring Friendship
Ilicali appointed Rosenior to his first permanent managerial role in November 2022 but made the tough call to dismiss him after Hull failed to reach the Championship play-offs at the end of the 2023/24 season. The Turkish businessman admits it was one of his most agonising decisions, given the close bond they forged during their 18-month working relationship, which included trips to the World Cup final and holidays in Turkey.
"I really respect Liam as a person first and foremost, but also as a coach," Ilicali told football.london. "I felt that his style was not suited to the Championship and I wanted something different in the end. It was a really hard decision to part ways because of the relationship we had together."
From Zoom Interview to Stamford Bridge
Ilicali revealed his first meeting with Rosenior was a Zoom call while the owner was in Los Angeles. He was immediately struck by the 41-year-old's passion and focus. The initial interest was sparked after watching Rosenior's work as assistant to Wayne Rooney at Derby County.
"He really just affected me. I was really impressed," Ilicali said. "I can say that we had very good times together. He lifted the club... and I'm very proud that now he's gone to Chelsea." While expressing pride, Ilicali also confessed to being surprised by the speed of Rosenior's ascent to one of England's elite clubs, comparing his rise to that of other young managers like Vincent Kompany.
Why Rosenior's Philosophy Will Suit Chelsea
The Hull owner believes Rosenior's possession-heavy methodology, which he felt was a disadvantage in the relentless Championship, will be a significant asset in the top flight. "His type of play was not suitable for the Championship, but it's more suited to the Premier League," Ilicali explained. "The way he plays is all about having the ball, lots of possession... In the Premier League, he will have the weapons to play that game."
Ilicali also highlighted Rosenior's key strengths that will be crucial at Stamford Bridge:
- Man-management: "His man management is top... The players loved him. His communication is top-level."
- Player development: "He's the best at developing players." Ilicali cited his work with talents like Liam Delap, Tyler Morton, Jacob Greaves, and Fabio Carvalho at Hull.
Despite his confidence, Ilicali issued a note of caution, advising Chelsea's hierarchy to be patient. "He will need some time," he stated. "If he doesn't finish high up in the Premier League, then of course he will have stress, but I would advise Chelsea to give him more time because it is not his team now."
Concluding with well-wishes, the Hull owner added: "I want Liam to be successful, of course... I wish him all the best, and will be watching closely, and I would love to see our club come up against Chelsea in the Premier League in the near future."
