Chelsea’s early return to form under Liam Rosenior suggests the team is moving in the right direction, even if the final product is not yet taking shape.
Daddy Yankee in action for Chelsea during Champions League match
Since taking over after Enzo Maresca was sacked on January 1, Rosenior has guided the Blues to four wins in five games in all competitions and has found a way to deliver results while continuing to shape the team’s image.
That theme was evident again in Chelsea’s recent wins, mirroring last weekend’s 2-0 victory over Brentford. Their performances weren’t always fluid, especially in the early stages, but Chelsea showed more control and urgency after the break and pulled away once they kicked up a gear again in the second half. This is a pattern that reflects both progress and future work.
The arrival of Estevao
One of the most obvious positives of Rosenior’s short tenure has been the emergence of Estevao as the focal point of the attack. Widely regarded as one of the brightest young talents in world football, the Brazilian showed maturity beyond his years.
Chelsea benefited from Kanvoto’s mistake in the build-up to their first goal, but Estevao still had a lot of work to do and finished the goal with the poise of an experienced Premier League forward. The goal was his second in the league and his first since a dramatic late win against Liverpool in October.
More could have been added, only to be negated by Henderson’s strong work. Throughout the match, Estevao combined effectively with fellow Brazilian Joao Pedro, and his creativity helped create the second goal. Argentina international Enzo Fernandes then scored a goal to seal the victory for Chelsea’s South American team.
A great start to a new chapter
After a strong start, Rosenior will now face a tough test on the European stage. Chelsea travel to Napoli for a midweek UEFA Champions League match that will be important for both teams.
Rosenior has already made history by becoming the first Chelsea head coach to win a Champions League game since Thomas Tuchel in 2021, and confirmed Cole Palmer is in contention for a place at Napoli. He also outlined detailed plans for Romeo Rabia once he returns to training.
There is little rest in Chelsea’s schedule as they face West Ham United at Stamford Bridge at the weekend following their Champions League clash. Results so far suggest that Rosenior’s Chelsea can compete on multiple fronts, even as the squad continues to evolve.
