Former Hull boss backs Rosenior for Chelsea top job

Liam Rosenior, sacked by Hull City in 2024 after a 7th-placed Championship finish, has been tipped to become Chelsea's next Jose Mourinho. The claim comes from former Hull manager Mike Phelan, who worked with Rosenior at the club.

Rosenior's tactical credentials

Rosenior built Hull into one of the Championship's most progressive sides. His teams averaged 58% possession and pressed aggressively in the final third. In 2023-24, Hull ranked 4th for shots on target per game (5.1) and 3rd for successful passes in the opposition half.

His defensive organisation was equally impressive. Hull kept 14 clean sheets that season, the joint-2nd best in the division. Rosenior's use of a fluid 4-3-3 with inverted full-backs drew comparisons to modern Premier League tactics.

Phelan noted: "Liam has that tactical intelligence Mourinho had at Porto. He reads games brilliantly and adapts mid-match. That's rare in young managers."

Why Chelsea would suit Rosenior

Chelsea's squad is young and hungry for direction. Rosenior's man-management style — player-led meetings, individual video analysis — mirrors the approach that built strong dressing rooms under Mourinho.

Statistically, Rosenior's Hull outperformed their wage budget by 15 places in the Championship. At Chelsea, where resources are vast, his ability to maximise squad potential could be transformative.

  • Rosenior's Hull won 4 of their last 5 home games in 2023-24, conceding just 2 goals.
  • He developed talents like Jaden Philogene and Jacob Greaves, who now feature in the Premier League.
  • Chelsea's current manager Enzo Maresca faces pressure after inconsistent results; Rosenior offers a long-term project.

What's next for Rosenior?

Rosenior remains without a managerial job since leaving Hull. If Chelsea struggle under Maresca, the board may look for a progressive coach. Rosenior's blend of tactical structure and youth development makes him a viable candidate to emulate Mourinho's impact. The next 12 months will determine whether he gets that chance.

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