Chelsea manager target has already made decision - 'I'd love to'

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Chelsea have sacked manager Liam Rosenior just three months into his tenure

Xavi is among the names being linked with the Chelsea job following Liam Rosenior's dismissal on Wednesday.

The Barcelona legend has already made no secret of his desire to test himself in the Premier League. Rosenior was appointed Blues manager on January 6, signing a six-year contract.

However, following five successive league defeats without finding the net - the club's worst such run since 1912 - the former defender was relieved of his duties. With the hunt for a new manager at Stamford Bridge now firmly underway, Xavi has emerged as a credible candidate.

The former Spain midfielder, who claimed La Liga titles with Barcelona both as a player and as a manager, confirmed in 2025 that he is eager to make a comeback. When asked about a return to management, Xavi told The Athletic: "Of course? Where, I don't know.

"There's no hurry for me, but I'd like a good project. Like, 'You have four years to work and make a project'. I'd love to work in the Premier League because I love the passion there. In Spain, it's too much about the result."

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The 46-year-old cited Mikel Arteta's tenure at Arsenal as a prime example of a long-term vision. The Gunners boss has been at the helm in north London for over six years and remains in the running for both the Premier League title and the Champions League this season.

Referencing Arteta's growing success at Arsenal, Xavi added: "Arteta with Arsenal – it's his sixth year with Arsenal and there were seasons when it was difficult, but his club trusted the process and continued. He's doing well. That doesn't happen in Spain."

Chelsea have cycled through four managers since 2023 and have dropped to eighth in the Premier League table. Following a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Brighton on Tuesday, the club confirmed Rosenior's exit.

In a statement, Chelsea said: "Liam has always conducted himself with the highest integrity and professionalism following his appointment midway through the season.

"This has not been a decision the club has taken lightly, however, recent results and performances have fallen below the necessary standards with still so much more to play for this season. Everyone at Chelsea FC wishes Liam every success in the future."

Calum McFarlane will assume interim control of the Blues for their FA Cup semi-final against Leeds United.

The club states they aim to "strive to achieve European qualification and progress in the FA Cup," and will "undertake a process of self-reflection" when identifying their next manager.

Other names being linked with a switch to Stamford Bridge include former Blue Cesc Fabregas, Andoni Iraola and Marco Silva.