Chelsea have been dealt a setback in their search for a new permanent manager after Porto boss Francesco Farioli publicly reaffirmed his commitment to the Portuguese club. The Italian coach, who had been loosely linked with the vacancy at Stamford Bridge, stated he is "really happy" at Porto, distancing himself from the speculation.
The Blues are seeking a new head coach after dismissing Liam Rosenior last month following a disastrous five-game losing run in the Premier League. Academy coach Calum McFarlane has taken interim charge for the second time this season and has already guided the team to the FA Cup final. Chelsea's hierarchy is now tasked with finding a long-term successor, with names like Andoni Iraola, Marco Silva, and Cesc Fabregas also in the frame.
Farioli made his comments to Portuguese broadcaster sport tv after Porto's 2-1 win over Estrela Amadora, a result that kept them seven points clear at the top of Liga Portugal. "I'm the coach of Porto and I'm really happy to be here," he said. This is not the first time the 37-year-old has expressed his loyalty; in January, he declared himself "totally committed" to the club and spoke of a deep connection with the president and the project.
The Italian's career has seen a rapid rise. He began as a goalkeeping coach under Roberto De Zerbi at Benevento and Sassuolo before moving into management with Turkish sides Fatih Karagumruk and Alanyaspor. A season at Nice, where he secured a fifth-place Ligue 1 finish, was followed by a controversial stint at Ajax. There, his side squandered a nine-point lead with five games left to lose the 2024-25 Eredivisie title to PSV, prompting his departure.
His move to Porto last summer has proven successful, with the club now firmly on course for a domestic title. According to talkSPORT's Ben Jacobs, Chelsea's process to replace Rosenior is still in its early stages, and Farioli was only ever a tentative candidate. The more prominent names believed to be under consideration are outgoing Bournemouth manager Iraola, Fulham's Silva, and former Chelsea midfielder Fabregas, who is now impressing as a coach at Como.
For now, Chelsea's immediate focus remains on the FA Cup final against Manchester City on May 16th under McFarlane's stewardship. The club's longer-term managerial pursuit continues, but one potential avenue appears closed as Farioli looks to build on a strong foundation at Porto.
