Sky Sports: Chelsea make head coach decision ahead of Fulham clash | OneFootball

Sky Sports: Chelsea make head coach decision ahead of Fulham clash | OneFootball

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·6 January 2026

Sky Sports: Chelsea make head coach decision ahead of Fulham clash

Article image:Sky Sports: Chelsea make head coach decision ahead of Fulham clash

Chelsea managerial situation takes shape as interim plan continues

Chelsea’s short term leadership arrangement remains in place, but behind the scenes momentum is building toward a permanent appointment. Reporting from Sky Sports has outlined a clear sequence of events that suggests clarity may arrive sooner rather than later, even if the next fixture still falls under interim control.

Calum McFarlane will once again take charge of the first team when Chelsea face Fulham on Wednesday. It is a continuation rather than a surprise, following his calm stewardship during the 1-1 draw at Manchester City on Sunday, a result that earned quiet approval within the club.


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McFarlane trusted amid transition

McFarlane, Chelsea’s Under 21 head coach, has been entrusted with steadying the ship during a delicate moment. As Sky Sports News reporter Kaveh Solhekol stated, “Calum McFarlane will be in charge of Chelsea for one more game against Fulham on Wednesday.”

That clarity matters. Chelsea have leaned into internal continuity rather than rushing an external solution, allowing senior figures time to finalise negotiations elsewhere. The City performance suggested organisation and buy in, even without long term certainty.

Rosenior discussions gather pace

Attention continues to centre on Liam Rosenior. According to Sky Sports, “Chelsea held positive talks with Strasbourg head coach Liam Rosenior on Monday and they are continuing.” The wording points to substance rather than courtesy, with discussions now stretching beyond initial feelers.

Article image:Sky Sports: Chelsea make head coach decision ahead of Fulham clash

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The expectation internally is becoming clearer too. “The direction of travel is that Rosenior will be Chelsea head coach in time for the FA Cup game at Charlton Athletic on Saturday.”  suggesting Chelsea are already mapping timelines.

BlueCo ownership dynamics shape timing

Ownership complexity plays a decisive role. Chelsea and Strasbourg both sit under the BlueCo umbrella, meaning decisions cannot be taken in isolation. Sky Sports report that BlueCo “want to make sure Strasbourg have new head coach in place before potential confirmation that Rosenior is replacing Enzo Maresca.”

This explains the slight delay. Strasbourg are reportedly close to appointing a successor, with “just three candidates” remaining.

What comes next for Chelsea

While McFarlane prepares for Fulham, the wider picture points toward resolution rather than limbo. Chelsea are balancing performance, perception, and ownership responsibilities, a familiar modern football challenge.

If Rosenior does arrive before the FA Cup tie, it will mark a decisive shift and offer clarity to players and supporters alike, while closing a carefully managed interim chapter.


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From a Chelsea supporter’s perspective, this report feels reassuring rather than frustrating. There is an acceptance that McFarlane has done exactly what was required, no drama, no overcomplication, and a solid 1-1 draw away at Manchester City suggests the squad remain engaged. For a fanbase fatigued by constant upheaval, competence matters.

The interest in Liam Rosenior is intriguing. Supporters will note his work at Strasbourg and appreciate the logic of continuity within the BlueCo model. There is always scepticism around multi club ownership, but this feels structured rather than chaotic. Ensuring Strasbourg are protected before confirming Chelsea’s next head coach reflects joined up thinking, something often missing in previous regimes.

Some fans will question whether Rosenior has the profile expected at Stamford Bridge. That debate is inevitable. Yet there is also an appetite for a coach who can develop players, communicate clearly, and grow with the squad rather than chase instant stardom.

If Chelsea reach the FA Cup tie with a new head coach in place, it provides a clean psychological reset. From a supporter viewpoint, clarity is the priority now. Results will follow, but direction has to come first.

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