Cole Advocates for Klopp as Chelsea’s Next Manager

Jurgen Klopp, currently serving as RB Leipzig’s sporting director, has been identified by Cole as the ideal candidate for the managerial position at Chelsea. While Liam Rosenior, who is affiliated with the Blues’ sister club Strasbourg, seems to be the leading contender, Cole believes Klopp should be the top priority, even if he acknowledges that such a suggestion might seem far-fetched.

In an exclusive interview with Paddy Power, Cole stated, “I know it seems unrealistic, but Jurgen Klopp would be a fantastic choice. He may not even consider it because of his ties to Liverpool, but you never know. If Chelsea’s main objective is to win trophies and they have the financial resources available, they should be reaching out to the very best. It may sound like a long shot, but without that ambition, clubs often resort to developing lesser-known managers, which is what they attempted with Enzo Maresca.”

Cole also expressed his concerns regarding Chelsea’s hasty decision to relieve Maresca of his duties, despite the Italian having led the club to victories in the Conference League and the Club World Cup the previous season.

He remarked, “I’m not surprised by the decision. Managers often do not receive the time they deserve. The dynamics surrounding managerial roles have changed significantly; how much authority does a manager truly have? They may select the team, but often external pressures dictate those choices. I believe Maresca wasn’t given a fair opportunity. He performed admirably under challenging circumstances, and the club’s statement regarding his departure acknowledged that.”

Cole and Rosenior share a long-standing professional relationship from their time at West Ham, and he believes Rosenior would be a suitable fit for Chelsea’s current direction.

“I’ve known Liam for a long time; he was a young player at West Ham and has enjoyed a successful career in the Premier League. He is passionate about football and aligns with the profile of Chelsea’s recent managerial choices—young and eager to prove themselves. In the past, Chelsea primarily sought out established names when searching for a manager, but the current ownership is exploring different avenues. These types of managers often prefer greater control to effectively rebuild the team.”

As Chelsea prepares to face Manchester City on Sunday, they will be under the guidance of Calum McFarlane, the Under-21 coach.

McFarlane has discussed his upcoming match against Pep Guardiola, stating, “Ultimately, this is a football match. It’s not about me or my first game; it’s Chelsea versus City. Both are top-tier teams, and we’re prepared to compete. We’ve demonstrated this season that we can rise to the occasion in significant moments.

“I feel quite calm about the situation. It may become more nerve-wracking as the game approaches.

“I don’t feel any different; the only change is the influx of text messages I receive. My focus remains on coming in each day and doing my best. I wouldn’t say we have nothing to lose, however. We recognize we’re up against a formidable team in excellent form, led by a great manager, but we also have a strong squad ourselves.”