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Liam Rosenior has publicly stated that he has reached a verbal agreement on a contract to assume the role of Chelsea's new manager. He characterized the chance to replace Enzo Maresca at Stamford Bridge as an opportunity too good to turn down.

Deal Confirmed Ahead of Official Signing

Rosenior is making the move from French side Strasbourg to their partner club Chelsea, after discussions regarding the position. At a press conference in Strasbourg, he noted, "I haven't signed the contract yet, but I have reached a verbal understanding with Chelsea. This is a different situation – it's uncommon for someone to make a statement before officially signing."

"Everything is agreed upon and the process will likely be finalized in the coming hours. I'm here today because I have great affection for this club and felt it was the proper thing to address questions in person before I move on."

Following Maresca's Exit

After Enzo Maresca's contentious exit from Stamford Bridge last week, Rosenior quickly emerged as the leading candidate. However, the appointment was complicated by the need for BlueCo – the ownership group that owns both Chelsea and Strasbourg – to balance the requirements of the two clubs. Strasbourg are now seeking to finalize a new manager, with Gary O'Neil in consideration.

Emotional Goodbye to Strasbourg

Reflecting on his time at Strasbourg, Rosenior said, "The past 18 months have been an absolute joy and the best period of my coaching career. I've encountered some amazing people and built some unforgettable memories, making history. None of that would have been possible without the investment of our ownership and the hard work of our president."

He added, "I have had approaches from several clubs, including Champions League sides, which I have always been open about. I will love this club forever, but I cannot pass up Chelsea."

Tactical Continuity and Backroom Team

Rosenior departs from Strasbourg with the team sitting in seventh place in Ligue 1. He has existing relationships with several of Chelsea's sporting directors and is considered a bright coaching talent. His appointment is not expected to require a drastic tactical overhaul from the framework established by his predecessor. Chelsea, currently in fifth place in the Premier League, have a fixture against Fulham imminent.

Rosenior expressed his enthusiasm for the future: "I am incredibly excited about what lies ahead. I have dedicated my life to become a coach at a top-level football club. That inevitably brings some sadness for what I am leaving behind. This is an poignant day as it is my last day as the Strasbourg manager."

He also stated that two of his assistants, Kalifa Cissé and Justin Walker, along with Strasbourg's head of analysis, Ben Warner, will join him in the move to West London.