Xavi Hernández Emerges as Frontrunner for Chelsea Vacancy Following Sacking of Liam Rosenior

Xavi Hernández is the top candidate to lead Chelsea after Liam Rosenior was fired. The Blues search for stability following five straight losses without a goal.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 23, 2026, 8:25 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from ysscores.com

The Sudden End of the Rosenior Era

Chelsea’s turbulent season took another dramatic turn on Wednesday as the club officially parted ways with head coach Liam Rosenior. The decision follows a disastrous run of results that saw the Blues lose five consecutive Premier League matches without scoring a single goal, a drought not seen at the club since 1912. Rosenior, who arrived from Strasbourg in January 2026 on a six-and-a-half-year contract, lasted just 106 days in the role. The final blow came during a 3-0 defeat at Brighton, after which the hierarchy determined that a change was necessary to save what remains of the club's European aspirations.

Xavi Hernández Leads the Search for Identity

At the top of the list to replace Rosenior is Xavi Hernández, the legendary former Barcelona manager who has been out of work since his departure from the Catalan giants. Chelsea’s leadership is reportedly enamored with Xavi’s defined footballing philosophy and his proven experience in managing the high-pressure environment of a world-class institution. By targeting Xavi, the BlueCo ownership signals a desire to move away from the "project manager" profile represented by Rosenior and toward a tactician with global pedigree who can command immediate respect in a splintered dressing room.

A Shortlist Defined by Tactical Innovation

While Xavi remains the primary target, Chelsea is cast a wide net that includes some of the most sought-after young coaches in Europe. Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola, whose high-pressing system has earned plaudits across the Premier League, is being considered for his tactical adaptability. Additionally, Edin Terzić has surfaced as a candidate after his successful stints with Borussia Dortmund. The club is reportedly prioritizing coaches who can implement a cohesive attacking structure, a desperate requirement for a squad that has plummeted to seventh in the standings and struggled for any offensive rhythm in recent weeks.