Potential Candidates for Chelsea’s Managerial Position

Oliver Glasner is poised to join one of the Premier League’s elite teams in the near future. Since succeeding Roy Hodgson as Crystal Palace manager in February 2024, the Austrian has significantly impacted English football. Under his leadership, the Eagles achieved their highest-ever points total (49) and improved that figure to 53 in his first full season. Moreover, Glasner orchestrated a remarkable 1-0 victory over Manchester City in the FA Cup final, ending the club’s 120-year wait for a trophy.

However, Glasner’s contract is set to expire this summer, and he is keen to test his mettle at the highest level. While a departure before then seems improbable, he is unlikely to consider Chelsea, especially following his frustration over Palace’s decision to halt Marc Guehi’s deadline-day move to Liverpool. The ongoing turmoil at Stamford Bridge may not sit well with him.

Cesc Fabregas embodies the qualities Chelsea seeks in a manager: he is young (38), tactically innovative, and adept at working within specific project parameters. His leadership at Como has been exemplary, guiding the club back to Serie A and making them one of the most compelling teams in Italy. As a former Chelsea player, having contributed to two title victories in five years, his return would likely be well-received by fans.

Despite his previous success, Fabregas enjoys significant influence at Como, where he is also a shareholder. This level of autonomy would be difficult to replicate at Chelsea, and it seems unlikely he would leave Como mid-season, especially as they are on track for European competition. Hence, while a Premier League return looms in the future, it is improbable that it will occur this month.

Frank Lampard’s potential third tenure at Stamford Bridge lacks clarity; however, Chelsea has not been guided by logic in the past. After leading Derby County to the Championship play-off final in 2019, Lampard was appointed by the previous regime. His brief return as caretaker in 2023 complicates matters further. Currently rebuilding his reputation at Coventry, Lampard is on the brink of securing a Premier League return for the first time since 2001. While fans hold him in high regard, a significant portion would likely view his reappointment with skepticism, given he remains outside the conversation for top jobs in the league.

Roberto De Zerbi stands out as an electrifying candidate due to his tactical prowess, earning admiration from Pep Guardiola. His work at Brighton has been visually captivating, and he is currently succeeding at Marseille, where the team ranks third in Ligue 1. Chelsea has previously expressed interest in De Zerbi, interviewing him before appointing Maresca. Nonetheless, his independent nature and desire for complete control may make him a poor fit for the club culture at Chelsea.

Another intriguing option is Alessio Farioli, who, at 36, is regarded as a potential elite coach in Italy. Having trained as a goalkeeping coach and gained experience across Turkey, France, and the Netherlands, he currently manages Porto. While his connection to De Zerbi makes him appealing, it is essential to note that Farioli has yet to secure a trophy and left Ajax due to differing visions with the club.

Kieran McKenna was considered a front-runner for the Chelsea role in the summer of 2024 after successfully leading Ipswich back to the Premier League. Though the team struggled last season, McKenna remains highly regarded at Stamford Bridge. Despite this, he appears committed to Ipswich, making a Chelsea move less likely at this moment.

Andoni Iraola, currently managing Bournemouth, has gained recognition as one of the Premier League’s finest coaches after leading his team to record points. His success despite losing key players could make him an attractive option for Chelsea, especially given his footballing philosophy aligns with that of the recently dismissed Maresca.

Finally, Liam Rosenior, currently managing Chelsea’s sister club Strasbourg, has achieved commendable results. Leading them to a seventh-place finish in Ligue 1 and a European qualification, he has garnered respect within the Chelsea hierarchy, positioning him as a likely candidate for the managerial role—despite some reservations from supporters regarding his previous tenure at Hull City.