Ahead of Chelsea's FA Cup third-round match against Charlton Athletic, Liam Rosenior declared his readiness to prove his capabilities. He dismissed suggestions he would be a "yes man", a label often given to those who simply follow ownership directives, following his move to Chelsea from sister club Strasbourg. The 41-year-old manager emphasized his commitment to making his own decisions as head coach.

"You cannot do this job without being yourself. People will see right through it", Rosenior stated. "I will be the one making the decisions at this club. That's why I was appointed. I understand what the media is saying, but no coach can succeed without charting their own course".

Coach Liam Rosenior speaking at the press conference before Chelsea's FA Cup third-round match against Charlton Athletic on 9/1. Photo: Chelsea FC

Before signing with Chelsea until 2032, Rosenior enjoyed an 18-month tenure at Strasbourg. He guided the team to 7th in Ligue 1, securing a European competition spot for the first time in 19 years. Strasbourg currently stands 7th in Ligue 1 and leads its UEFA Conference League group.

Rosenior noted that his experience working within Strasbourg's multi-club model provides him with a clear understanding of Chelsea's current operations. "I received complete support at Strasbourg, and we achieved significant success relative to the project's starting point. I will operate in a similar way here", he explained.

During an impressive debut press conference, Rosenior also praised his predecessor, Enzo Maresca, and highlighted the importance of fostering internal connections. He stated he would embrace the pressure at Stamford Bridge, viewing it as a privilege rather than a burden.

"The bigger the club, the higher the pressure, but it is also an honor", the English manager remarked. "If you are afraid, you should not be a coach. I have worked almost my entire life for this opportunity, and I will enjoy it".

Chelsea has secured only one win in their last 9 Premier League matches, falling behind in the race for a Champions League spot. Despite this, Rosenior expressed confidence in the current squad's quality. "We have world-class players, including World Cup and Club World Cup winners. The potential of this team, of this group, is limitless", he asserted.

Regarding his tactical philosophy, Rosenior stated his willingness to adapt to player characteristics rather than rigidly imposing a system. When questioned about potentially instructing goalkeepers to play high and with their feet, as he did at Strasbourg, he responded: "You must build on the players' strengths. Both Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen are proficient with their feet, but everything requires time. This is a process".

The English coach also addressed Chelsea's disciplinary issues. In the 1-2 loss to Fulham, which Rosenior attended from the stands, Marc Cucurella received a red card in the 22nd minute. This made him the 5th Chelsea player to be sent off in the Premier League this season. In the Premier League era, Chelsea only received more red cards in the 2007-2008 season (6).

Rosenior mentioned he had positive discussions with the players. "That passion and desire to win is something to be valued", he said. "The important thing is how we react in crucial moments. We need to remain calmer, but I also do not want to diminish the players' aggression and personality. To win, sometimes you cannot be too gentle".

Rosenior concluded the press conference with a message of ambition and patience. "I want to succeed, and I am very ambitious. However, we must clearly understand our current position and the path we need to follow. This requires time, not too much, but enough to build correctly", he emphasized.

Hong Duy (according to Daily Mail)