Chelsea have begun the new year with a major vacancy in the dugout, having parted ways with manager Enzo Maresca on New Year's Day 2026. The search for his permanent successor is now in full swing, but one of world football's most illustrious names, Zinedine Zidane, has already indicated he will not be a candidate.
Why Zidane is not a contender for the Chelsea job
Despite his legendary status and success with Real Madrid, the French icon is extremely unlikely to take the reins at Stamford Bridge. In a revealing 2024 interview with L'Equipe, Zidane addressed the persistent speculation linking him with Premier League roles, including at Manchester United. He pointed to a significant personal hurdle: his command of the English language.
"I understand English, but I'm not completely fluent in it," Zidane stated. He elaborated on his managerial philosophy, adding, "I know that there are coaches who go to clubs without speaking the language, but I work in a different way." This admission effectively removes him from consideration for the Chelsea post, where communication with players, staff, and media is paramount.
Chelsea's immediate plans and leading candidate
With Zidane out of the picture, Chelsea's hierarchy is pressing ahead with other options. The club's Under-21 manager Calum McFarlane will take temporary charge for the upcoming Premier League fixture away at Manchester City on Sunday. In his pre-match press conference, McFarlane focused on the challenge ahead, saying, "Ultimately, it's a football match... It's about Chelsea versus City. Two top sides."
Meanwhile, the frontrunner for the permanent position appears to be Liam Rosenior, the current manager of Strasbourg. Talks are reportedly underway, facilitated by the shared ownership between the two clubs. Rosenior's potential appointment would see him return to English football after his spell at Hull City.
The aftermath of Maresca's departure
Enzo Maresca's exit came after days of mounting speculation, leaving Chelsea in fifth place in the Premier League table. The Blues are just three points behind fourth-placed Liverpool, maintaining a strong position in the race for Champions League qualification despite the managerial upheaval.
While other high-profile names like Cesc Fabregas, John Terry, and Roberto De Zerbi have been loosely linked with the role in the initial 24 hours after the sacking, it is understood none are being seriously considered at this stage. The club's focus is firmly on securing a long-term solution, with Rosenior now at the centre of negotiations.
