Liam Rosenior has revealed that he is continuing to live in a hotel following his appointment as Chelsea FC manager, insisting that finding a permanent home is not currently at the top of his agenda. The 41-year-old took charge at Stamford Bridge after the departure of Enzo Maresca and has overseen an impressive opening spell in west London.
Since arriving from sister club Strasbourg in January, Rosenior has won eight of his first 11 matches in all competitions. His only setbacks came against Premier League leaders Arsenal FC in the Carabao Cup semi-finals, a sequence that has nonetheless strengthened Chelsea’s push for Champions League qualification.
Strong start at Stamford Bridge
Chelsea currently sit fifth in the Premier League table, a position that could prove sufficient for Champions League football next season, given England’s favourable UEFA coefficient ranking. The Blues also remain active in Europe this term, having advanced to the last 16 after finishing sixth in the league phase.
They are set to face one of AS Monaco, Paris Saint-Germain, Qarabag FK, or Newcastle United in the next round. That draw adds further intrigue to a campaign that has gathered momentum under Rosenior’s guidance.
Despite an eight-day gap between fixtures following a 4-0 FA Cup victory over Hull, Rosenior admitted he has struggled to completely detach from his responsibilities. While several players used the break to recharge abroad, including trips to warmer climates, the manager remained firmly focused on preparations.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Rosenior acknowledged that he managed to switch off for only a single day. He stressed the importance of rest for both players and staff, particularly those who travel consistently with the team, but made it clear that his own focus has been unwavering.
He confirmed that he is still residing in a hotel and expects to remain there until at least the end of the season. With a demanding fixture schedule and high expectations surrounding Chelsea’s ambitions, Rosenior explained that securing permanent accommodation is not a pressing concern.
Firm stance on racism
Rosenior also addressed the broader conversation surrounding racism in football following the controversial Champions League tie between SL Benfica and Real Madrid CF, where Vinicius Junior reported alleged abuse from Gianluca Prestianni.
The referee in that fixture activated anti-racism protocols, leading to a temporary stoppage in play. Rosenior stated unequivocally that if he clearly heard racist abuse directed at one of his players and felt no action was being taken, he would remove his team from the field.
Reflecting on his own background, Rosenior described himself as fortunate to have grown up in a mixed-heritage family, with a Black father and white mother. He emphasised that unity and equality remain core values for him personally and professionally.
Busy schedule ahead
Chelsea return to Premier League action with a clash against Burnley FC, knowing that a victory could move them ahead of top-four rivals Manchester United, who play later in the week against Everton FC.
Following that fixture, the Blues face another brief pause before a challenging encounter with Arsenal. Rosenior will be eager to overturn previous defeats against Mikel Arteta’s side and strengthen Chelsea’s Champions League credentials.
March promises to be equally demanding, with trips to Aston Villa and Wrexham AFC in the FA Cup, as well as a home league clash against Newcastle.
With the Champions League knockout draw looming and domestic battles intensifying, Rosenior’s immediate concern remains performance on the pitch. For now, life in a hotel is simply part of the commitment required to keep Chelsea’s season on track.
