Chelsea Rule Out Fabregas, Glasner and Farioli as Managerial Search Narrows
Chelsea have trimmed their managerial shortlist further, with Cesc Fabregas, Oliver Glasner and Francesco Farioli all ruled out of contention to replace Enzo Maresca at Stamford Bridge as the club’s search gathers pace.
The Blues are back in the market after parting company with Maresca on New Year’s Day, a decision that brought a sudden end to the Italian’s reign despite silverware delivered in 2025. Chelsea are now working through their options as they prepare for another reset in the dugout.
Maresca’s departure followed growing uncertainty around his long-term commitment, with discussions held with Manchester City and Juventus over potential future vacancies. Those conversations raised doubts behind the scenes, and Chelsea ultimately opted for a clean break just 18 months after appointing the former Pep Guardiola assistant.
Context remains important in understanding Chelsea’s direction. Maresca oversaw success in the Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup, yet the club’s hierarchy continue to prioritise long-term vision over recent honours. The preference remains for a progressive, modern coach rather than an established name.
Fabregas, who has been building his coaching reputation with Como in Italy, appeared to fit that profile on paper. However, reports indicate the former Chelsea midfielder is not under consideration. Despite his strong ties to the club and growing promise as a manager, a return to west London is not on the agenda.
Glasner has also been discounted. The Crystal Palace manager boasts Premier League experience and led the Eagles to a remarkable FA Cup triumph in 2025, but The Athletic reports he is not part of Chelsea’s thinking as the process continues.
Farioli’s name has likewise been crossed off. Fabrizio Romano has confirmed the 36-year-old Porto coach has committed his future to the Portuguese club, telling supporters they will continue together. Chelsea were aware that extracting him from the Estadio do Dragao would require compensation in the region of £13 million, a factor that further cooled any potential move.
Earlier in the process, Roberto De Zerbi had already been ruled out despite talks with the Blues, leaving Chelsea to explore alternative routes as they shape their next chapter.
Attention has now turned to Strasbourg head coach Liam Rosenior, a figure familiar to Chelsea’s ownership structure through BlueCo. Moving him between sister clubs would present few logistical challenges, and his attacking philosophy aligns with the club’s broader vision.
There are still questions to answer. Rosenior has yet to coach in the Premier League, having previously worked at Derby County and Hull City before his move to France. Experience at the highest domestic level remains a consideration as Chelsea weigh potential against immediate demands.
Other familiar names continue to hover in the background. John Terry has once again been linked with a return to Stamford Bridge, while Frank Lampard’s work at Championship leaders Coventry has not gone unnoticed following his previous spells as Chelsea manager.
Chelsea’s next appointment will carry significant weight. With expectations high and patience limited, the club’s decision will shape not only the remainder of the season but the broader direction of a project still searching for stability at the top.