Could Cesc Fabregas be the answer to Chelsea's managerial merry-go-round? Former Blues defender Glen Johnson certainly thinks so, backing the club legend to command immediate respect in the Stamford Bridge dressing room.
Chelsea find themselves in familiar territory—searching for a new head coach yet again. The dismissal of Liam Rosenior last month, just four months into his tenure, marks the second managerial exit this season following Enzo Maresca's departure in January. With Calum McFaralne stepping in as interim boss for the remainder of the campaign, the club's sporting directors are working through a shortlist of potential candidates.
The rumor mill is buzzing with around seven or eight names under consideration. Bournemouth's Andoni Iraola is reportedly the early frontrunner, while Xabi Alonso and Marco Silva also feature prominently in Chelsea's thinking. However, the Blues are taking their time to ensure they get this crucial appointment right.
According to Sky Sports reporter Kaveh Solehkol, Chelsea can still attract top-tier managerial talent. The priority? Finding someone who can command the dressing room's respect from day one—a non-negotiable after recent struggles.
Johnson, speaking to Metro, believes Fabregas fits the bill perfectly. "Chelsea have had both types of manager—an experienced manager who won everything? They sacked them. Young, promising managers? Sacked them too," Johnson said. "I don't think it is a specific profile they are after, they only care about winning. Whoever it is needs time to turn it around and win."
Comparing the candidates, Johnson added: "Both Iraola and Fabregas have credentials. Having Premier League experience as a manager is huge, whereas Cesc knows the club a lot better and as a former player, would definitely get the players' respect."
Fabregas's deep connection to Chelsea—where he won two Premier League titles and an FA Cup during his playing days—could be the X-factor the club needs. While Iraola brings tactical nous from his impressive work at Bournemouth, Fabregas offers something equally valuable: instant credibility in a dressing room that has seen its fair share of turnover.
On the player front, Nicolas Jackson is expected to return to Chelsea this summer, with reports linking him to Newcastle proving wide of the mark. As the club navigates yet another transition, one thing is clear—the next appointment will be pivotal in shaping Chelsea's future.