Rosenior praises impressive beginning to Chelsea management

Liam Rosenior praised Chelseas impressive opening to his time as manager after the new head coach enjoyed a 5-1 victory over Charlton in the FA Cup third round on Saturday.

Stepping in for his debut match at Chelsea after joining from Strasbourg, Rosenior saw strikes from Jorrel Hato, Tosin Adarabioyo, Marc Guiu, Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernandez provide an ideal welcome to the team.

The 41 year old has taken over from Enzo Maresca, who left the club last week following a difficult season filled with rumours of disagreements with the clubs leadership.

Certain observers have wondered if Rosenior might simply follow the directions of Chelseas influential figures, given that Strasbourg shares ownership with the Premier League side.

Rosenior, who was dismissed by Championship outfit Hull in 2024, faces pressure to deliver yet comfortably beating Charlton, currently 19th in the second division, at The Valley avoided any potential upset in his opening fixture.

"A solid beginning, done with professionalism. Our opening goal arrived at a key moment, and it was a superb effort from Jorrel. The level shown by my team was exceptional. Firm foundation to develop from," he commented.

"Scores alter matches, and that stems from the talent in the squad. Scoring when we did proved very effective. 

"I have an excellent group of players, and I was pleased with the initial lineup. Marc Guiu performed brilliantly, earning his strike.

"Plenty of encouraging aspects. Good opening, though its early to get overly excited."

Maresca, Thomas Tuchel, Mauricio Pochettino and Graham Potter have each struggled to maintain long term roles since Todd Boehlys group acquired the club.

Rosenior becomes the first Chelsea manager to triumph in his first outing since Antonio Conte in 2016, with the prior nine full time and interim appointments all losing their debut.

Tougher challenges await Rosenior, beginning with a home clash against Premier League frontrunners Arsenal in the League Cup semi final first leg on Wednesday.

"The players have responded well to our approach, and I appreciate their attitude. Continuing like this fills me with optimism for what lies ahead," Rosenior added.

"Only a minor fixture for us on Wednesday!"