Liam Rosenior is reportedly making a very swift return to the dugout, just two months after being sacked by Chelsea. According to French outlet L'Equipe, the 41-year-old is in talks to take over Ligue 1 side Paris FC, who are preparing to part ways with manager Antoine Kombouare.
Rosenior's Brief, Turbulent Chelsea Tenure
Chelsea hired Rosenior in January to replace Enzo Maresca, moving him from fellow Todd Boehly-owned club Strasbourg. He signed a five-and-a-half-year contract but lasted just 106 days at Stamford Bridge as results spiralled, players revolted, and supporters voiced their anger. At the time of his appointment, Chelsea were well-placed for a top-four finish and still in contention for the Champions League, FA Cup, and Carabao Cup. However, the season ended with Under-21 coach Calum McFarlane in charge as the club finished 10th and trophyless, missing out on European qualification for the second time in four years.
Paris FC Talks and Potential Deal
Kombouare only joined Paris FC in February, successfully steering them away from relegation, but the relationship between manager and ownership has quickly turned sour. Paris FC players were due to report back to training on Wednesday, but the club has pushed that back by a week, fuelling speculation that a change in the dugout is imminent. It is said Rosenior will sign a two-year deal, with the option of a third, though Chelsea may be involved in the negotiations given how soon it is since he left west London.
Rosenior's Reputation and Future
Despite a disastrous few months, Rosenior's reputation has not been too badly damaged. He lost 10 of his 23 games at Chelsea but enjoyed success in France, qualifying Strasbourg for the UEFA Conference League in his first season. He had been an early favourite to become Ipswich boss following Kieran McKenna's resignation, but the Premier League side instead decided to hire Gary O'Neil – the man who replaced Rosenior at Strasbourg. This news comes on the same day that Maresca was announced as Pep Guardiola's successor at Manchester City, with Chelsea issuing a statement slamming the conduct of Rosenior's predecessor. Maresca himself has apologised to Blues fans for the manner of his exit but also aimed a sly dig at Boehly and the club.
