Chelsea have identified Julian Nagelsmann as their preferred candidate to become the club's next permanent head coach, according to TEAMtalk sources. The search was initiated this week following the dismissal of Liam Rosenior, who was sacked after a run of five consecutive defeats without scoring a goal, a first for the club since 1912. The club's hierarchy, led by co-owners Behdad Eghbali and Todd Boehly, are now conducting a thorough review of potential successors.
Sources indicate that Nagelsmann is the 'dream appointment' for the Chelsea ownership, who also pursued the German coach in 2023. It is understood that while Nagelsmann rejected the approach at that time, he retained a positive impression of the club. The current process remains fluid, with no formal approach made to Nagelsmann or any other candidate as of yet. The club is reportedly determined to conduct extensive due diligence before making a final decision.
Alongside Nagelsmann, a wide range of alternatives are under consideration. These include Matthias Jaissle, the former RB Salzburg manager now in Saudi Arabia, who has been labelled the 'new Nagelsmann'. Other overseas options include Al-Hilal's Simone Inzaghi and Bayer Leverkusen's Xabi Alonso, who is currently without a job after leaving Real Madrid in January. Alonso has also been linked with the Liverpool vacancy, though the Reds are expected to retain Arne Slot.
The shortlist also features several coaches with Premier League experience or profiles expected to command immediate respect in the dressing room. Crystal Palace's Oliver Glasner and Bournemouth's Andoni Iraola are on the radar, while the situation of Newcastle's Eddie Howe is being monitored amid uncertainty at St James' Park. A sentimental option is former Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas, who has impressed in his first senior managerial role at Como in Italy's Serie B.
The decision to part ways with Rosenior followed what sources described as an 'irreparable rift' between the manager and the playing squad. Chelsea's form collapsed dramatically in the final weeks of his brief 106-day tenure, prompting the ownership to act despite having publicly backed him recently. The club is now focused on appointing a figure who can align with their long-term vision and restore stability after a turbulent period.
With no immediate pressure to appoint, Chelsea are casting a wide net and are open to various profiles, from established European names to emerging talents. The coming weeks will be crucial as they aim to secure a manager capable of leading the next phase of their project. The appointment will be pivotal for a club currently sitting eighth in the Premier League and seeking a return to the Champions League.
