New Chelsea coach Liam Rosenior says his side already have the quality to win as they prepare to host Arsenal in the first leg of the EFL Cup semi-final.
Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior has made it clear that victory is the only objective as his side prepare to face Arsenal in the first leg of their EFL Cup semi-final on Wednesday. The encounter will mark Rosenior’s first meeting with a Premier League opponent since taking charge at Stamford Bridge.
Rosenior was appointed on Tuesday and quickly oversaw a return to winning ways, as Chelsea ended a five-match winless run with an emphatic 5-1 FA Cup victory over Charlton Athletic at the weekend. That result has lifted spirits ahead of a demanding midweek test against the league leaders.
Speaking ahead of the game, the 41-year-old stressed that success is essential if he is to build something long-term at the club. Rosenior admitted he has a clear vision for Chelsea’s future but insisted the current squad is already capable of delivering results.
He revealed that preparations for Arsenal began immediately after his arrival, with the coaching staff carrying out detailed tactical analysis of Mikel Arteta’s side. Rosenior highlighted the work done on Arsenal’s strengths, including their highly effective set-piece routines.
However, the Chelsea boss was quick to point out that Arsenal’s threat extends far beyond dead-ball situations. He praised their organisation, work without the ball and clarity in possession, describing them as a complete team rather than one reliant on set plays alone.
Rosenior added that facing such a well-drilled opponent provides a clear benchmark for his players, especially in a semi-final setting where fine margins can decide the tie. He believes matching Arsenal’s intensity and discipline will be crucial across both legs.
Despite the scale of the occasion, Rosenior played down any personal pressure, insisting his focus remains firmly on the task at hand. For him, the approach is simple: treat it as the next game, trust the process, and deliver the win Chelsea “have to get” to move closer to silverware.
