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Liam Rosenior has publicly stated that he has verbally agreed on a contract to become Chelsea's new first-team boss. He characterized the chance to succeed Enzo Maresca at Stamford Bridge as an opportunity he simply could not refuse.

Agreement Reached Ahead of Formal Contract

Rosenior is transitioning from Ligue 1 club Strasbourg to their sister team Chelsea, after discussions regarding the position. At a press conference in Strasbourg, he commented, "I haven't signed the contract yet, but I have reached a verbal understanding with Chelsea. This is a unique situation – rarely does anyone to make a statement before the paperwork is complete."

"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 embark on my next chapter."

Following Maresca's Exit

After Enzo Maresca's acrimonious 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 be sensitive to the needs of the two clubs. Strasbourg are now working to appoint a new manager, with Gary O'Neil among the contenders.

A Fond Farewell to Strasbourg

Reflecting on his time at Strasbourg, Rosenior said, "The past 18 months have been an incredible pleasure and the highlight of my coaching career. I've encountered some amazing people and created some unforgettable memories, making history. None of that would have been possible without the investment of our ownership and the dedication of our president."

He continued, "I have received interest from a number of clubs, including Champions League sides, which I have always been open about. I will love this club for the rest of my life, but I cannot pass up Chelsea."

Tactical Continuity and Staff Moves

Rosenior departs from Strasbourg with the team sitting seventh in Ligue 1. He has existing relationships with a number 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 match against Fulham coming up.

Rosenior expressed his excitement for the future: "I am incredibly excited about what lies ahead. I have worked tirelessly to become a coach at a top-level football club. That does bring some sadness for what I am leaving behind. This is an poignant day as it is my last waking up as the Strasbourg manager."

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