Strasbourg Fans Criticize Liam Rosenior’s Move to Chelsea

Outrage from Supporters Federation

The Federation of Supporters at Strasbourg has strongly condemned Liam Rosenior’s transfer to Chelsea, calling it yet another “humiliating step in Racing’s subservience to Chelsea.”

Rosenior, who took over as head coach at Strasbourg in July 2024, has signed a 5.5-year deal with Chelsea, stepping in to fill the position previously held by Enzo Maresca.

Ownership Dynamics Impacting the Move

Both Chelsea and Strasbourg are owned by the BlueCo group, which is believed to have facilitated this transition. Marc Keller and sporting director David Weir accompanied Rosenior to London to finalize the agreement this week.

Strasbourg fans have consistently expressed their dissatisfaction with this ownership model. During Rosenior’s last match— a draw against Nice—supporters honored their tradition of a five-minute silent protest against the owners, displaying “BlueCo Out” signs and a banner that read: “non à la multipropriété” (no to multi-ownership).

The Fédération Supporters RCS (FSRCS) has made their discontent known, viewing Rosenior’s departure as an adverse move for both their club and French football at large.

Statements from Supporters

“The transfer of Liam Rosenior marks another humiliating step in Racing’s subservience to Chelsea,” the supporters group expressed in a statement.

“For the past two and a half years, we have raised concerns about this [BlueCo ownership]. The issues extend well beyond immediate sporting impacts and the aspirations of a young coach; they are structural, and they jeopardize the future of French club football.”

Noteworthy Mentions

• Chelsea announces Rosenior as new head coach on a long-term contract.
• Rosenior’s contract with Chelsea extends to 2032; examining the longest contracts within the club.
• Wayne Rooney praises Rosenior, stating he is “as good as I’ve ever worked with.”

Continued Criticism of Club Leadership

The backlash did not end with the announcement of Rosenior’s move. The supporters directed further criticism toward club president Marc Keller, a former player turned executive who helped orchestrate the sale of the club to BlueCo in 2023.

“Every additional action taken by Marc Keller, every moment he remains in charge, is a slight to the significant achievements made prior to 2023,” they declared.

“What many considered shocking last September is becoming increasingly clear: he needs to resign. Immediately.”

The FSRCS announced plans to collaborate with three other associations that are opposing multiple ownership in football, as well as with anyone who supports their cause, to decide on future actions.