Former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas has turned down the opportunity to become the next permanent manager of Chelsea, opting to remain at Italian club Como where he is enjoying success.
Chelsea's Managerial Search Continues
Chelsea have been searching for a new manager since the dismissal of Liam Rosenior after just 107 days in charge. Rosenior was sacked following five consecutive Premier League defeats without scoring a goal. He had replaced Enzo Maresca, who resigned in January 2026 after disagreements with the club's ownership over transfer investment despite winning two trophies in his first season.
The failure to sign a replacement for Levi Colwill, who suffered an ACL injury early in the season, was a key factor in Maresca's departure. Interim manager Calum McFarlane, the former U21 coach, is currently in charge until a permanent appointment is made in the summer.
Fabregas's Stance on Chelsea Job
Fabregas, who spent five seasons at Chelsea and won two Premier League titles, has been linked with the managerial role due to his impressive work at Como. He retired as a player in 2023 and became head coach, also holding a minority ownership stake. He guided the club to promotion to Serie A for the first time in its history and currently has them fifth in the table, three points behind fourth-placed Juventus, with a strong chance of qualifying for European competition.
Speaking to the Daily Telegraph, Fabregas downplayed a move to England: "The Premier League is the best league in the world. I've always been very, very clear about it. I felt it as a player, I feel it as a coach, as a fan. But [José] Mourinho told me one day when I was at Chelsea: 'I still have 30 years to work.' So, hypothetically, I could be here [Como] for 10 years, and you can still go to the Premier League in 12, 15 years."
He added that he wants to enjoy the moment and see what happens, noting that at Como he has full control over decisions, unlike at Chelsea where a team of sporting directors handle recruitment.
According to City AM, despite Fabregas's reluctance, Como president Mirwan Suwarso is open to letting the coach leave if it makes him happy.
Chelsea Contact Andoni Iraola
Legit.ng previously reported that Chelsea have contacted Andoni Iraola about the vacant position. Iraola is set to leave AFC Bournemouth at the end of the season and is also on Manchester United's radar.
