Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has publicly endorsed Strasbourg manager Liam Rosenior for the vacant Chelsea head coach position, describing him as one of the best coaches he has ever worked with and insisting he deserves the opportunity at Stamford Bridge.

Rosenior, 41, has emerged as a strong contender for the Chelsea job amid the club’s ongoing search for a new manager. Chelsea shares ownership ties with French Ligue 1 side Strasbourg, where the Englishman has been head coach since joining the club in 2024.

Rooney and Rosenior previously worked together at Derby County between 2021 and 2022, during a challenging period for the club when Rosenior served as Rooney’s assistant. After Rooney’s exit, Rosenior briefly took charge as Derby’s interim manager in League One before securing a permanent role at Hull City, and later moving to Strasbourg.

Speaking on the BBC’s Wayne Rooney Show, the former England captain was full of praise for his former colleague, highlighting Rosenior’s tactical intelligence and attention to detail.

He said Rosenior had taken bold steps in his coaching career and expressed hope that those decisions would pay off, adding that he ranks him among the finest coaches he has worked with. Rooney emphasised Rosenior’s meticulous approach to daily training and match preparation, describing his methods as exceptional.

Rooney also credited Rosenior with playing a key role during his time as Derby manager, noting that Rosenior handled much of the tactical and coaching responsibilities while he focused on overall management and player relations.

Chelsea is currently without a permanent head coach following the departure of Enzo Maresca, and the club has reportedly begun the process of identifying a replacement. With Rosenior’s growing reputation and strong backing from Rooney, his candidacy for the role continues to gather momentum.