Racing Strasbourg head coach Liam Rosenior confirmed on Tuesday that he has reached a verbal agreement with Chelsea to become the club’s next manager, revealing that he intends to bring assistants Kalifa Cisse and Justin Walker with him to Stamford Bridge.

The 41-year-old stressed that no contract has yet been signed, describing the circumstances surrounding the move as highly unusual.

“I haven’t signed anything yet, but I have verbally agreed with Chelsea,” Rosenior said at a press conference. “This situation is different to anything we’ve seen before. Nobody usually makes a statement before a contract is signed.

“Everything is agreed and it should be finalised in the next few hours,” he added. “I’m here today because I care deeply about this club, and I felt it was important to answer your questions in person before I move on.”

Rosenior joined Ligue 1 side Strasbourg in 2024 and described his time at the club as the most fulfilling period of his managerial career, following previous spells at Derby County and Hull City.

“The last 18 months have been a joy and the best time of my professional life,” he said. “I’ve met incredible people, created unforgettable memories and made history together.”

He also confirmed that Strasbourg’s ownership had been kept fully informed about external interest in him.

“I’ve had approaches from many clubs, including those competing in the Champions League, and I’ve always been transparent with our president, Marc Keller, and the ownership,” Rosenior explained. “I will love this club for the rest of my life, but I can’t turn down Chelsea.”

Chelsea dismissed manager Enzo Maresca last week following a disappointing run of results.

Reflecting on the opportunity ahead, Rosenior said: “I’m incredibly excited about the future. I’ve worked my whole life to coach and to manage a world-class football club.

“At the same time, there’s sadness in what I’m leaving behind. Today is emotional — it’s the last day I wake up as Strasbourg manager. But this is football.”