Chelsea Football Club dismissed head coach Liam Rosenior on Wednesday. The decision came just hours after a humiliating 3-0 defeat to Brighton on Tuesday night.
The club confirmed Rosenior’s departure in an official statement. Chelsea had lost five consecutive Premier League matches without scoring, marking their worst league run since 1912.
Chelsea expressed gratitude toward Rosenior and his staff in their announcement. The statement read: “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.”
The club 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.”
Rosenior did not hold back after the Brighton defeat. The former head coach described his team’s showing as “indefensible” and “unacceptable.”
He further explained: “The manner of the goals we conceded, the duels that we lost. Something has to change drastically right here, right now.”
Chelsea had appointed Rosenior in early January. He arrived from sister club Strasbourg, signing a five and a half year deal. However the 41-year-old managed just 11 wins from 23 matches across all competitions.
Calum McFarlane will take charge of the team as Interim Head Coach. McFarlane, who was Rosenior’s assistant, will lead Chelsea until the end of the season. His first match will be Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final against Leeds United at Wembley.
Chelsea stated they will now search for a long-term replacement. The club concluded: “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.”
