Chelsea FC have dismissed head coach Liam Rosenior after a poor run of results, appointing Calum McFarlane as caretaker manager for the remainder of the season.
The decision follows Tuesday’s 3-0 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion, which marked Chelsea’s fifth consecutive Premier League loss without scoring and their seventh defeat in eight matches across all competitions. The slump has left the club seventh in the league, effectively ending hopes of securing a Champions League spot.
Rosenior’s departure comes just over three months after taking charge, despite a promising start that saw him win six of his first seven matches. However, performances declined sharply in recent weeks, beginning with a heavy Champions League exit to Paris Saint-Germain, where Chelsea were beaten 8-2 on aggregate.
In a statement, the club said, “On behalf of everyone at Chelsea FC, we would like to place on record our gratitude to Liam and his staff for all their efforts during their time with the Club. Liam has always conducted himself with the highest integrity and professionalism following his appointment midway through the season.”
The statement added, “This has not been a decision the Club has taken lightly, however recent results and performances have fallen below the necessary standards with still so much more to play for this season. Everyone at Chelsea FC wishes Liam every success in the future.”
“Calum McFarlane will take charge of the team as Interim Head Coach until the end of the season with support from existing Club backroom staff, as we strive to achieve European qualification and progress in the FA Cup. As the Club works to bring stability to the Head Coach position, we will undertake a process of self-reflection to make the right long-term appointment.”
Club officials reportedly held extensive discussions following the Brighton defeat, with co-owner Behdad Eghbali involved in talks over the manager’s future.
Chelsea have yet to begin the search for a permanent replacement, with plans to appoint a new head coach in the summer, as the club looks to rebuild after a disappointing campaign.
