MOTD Analyst Takes the Helm as Chelsea's New Manager After Just One Episode on BBC Show

Table of Contents

1. Gary O’Neil Takes Over at Strasbourg
2. Liam Rosenior's Departure to Chelsea
3. Gary O’Neil's Background
4. Club Statement on O’Neil's Appointment
5. Remarks from Club President Marc Keller
6. O’Neil's Excitement for the Role
7. Strasbourg's Ownership Context
8. Rosenior's Sentiments about Strasbourg
9. Rosenior's New Role at Chelsea

FORMER Wolves manager Gary O’Neil has succeeded Liam Rosenior as the head coach of Strasbourg after Rosenior accepted the Chelsea position.

Rosenior, 41, dedicated two years to the club, achieving a remarkable seventh-place finish last season, which marked their highest position in history.

Gary O’Neil has taken over as Strasbourg's head coach shortly after appearing on Match of the DayCredit: Refer to source Rosenior has signed a five-and-a-half-year contract with Chelsea after his departure from the French clubCredit: Getty

His team was in a similar position this season prior to his departure.

O’Neil has accepted this role as his first position since his previous stint.

O’Neil, who managed Bournemouth for one season during the 2022-23 campaign, has been away from football since leaving Molineux and has worked as a pundit.

He recently appeared on Sunday’s episode of a program, filming just one episode before returning to management.

In an official statement, the club announced: “Racing Club de Strasbourg Alsace is pleased to announce Gary O’Neil as the new head coach of the first team.”

“At 42, Gary O’Neil brings significant experience in top-tier football.”

“He will conduct his first training session this Thursday and will be on the sidelines for Racing's match on Saturday against Avranches in the Coupe de France.”

Club president Marc Keller expressed: “I am thrilled to welcome Gary O’Neil to Racing.”

“He is a demanding and respected coach with a modern approach to football, which aligns perfectly with our ongoing sports project.”

O’Neil remarked: “I’m eager to get started and honored to be part of this incredible club. It has a unique history, remarkable passion, resilience, and, of course, devoted supporters who desire to see this team excel and achieve success.”

“We have a talented group of players and clear, ambitious goals for the season. My priority is to work diligently with the squad to strive for the club’s success.”

Strasbourg is owned by BlueCo, the company managed by the owner, facilitating Rosenior's transition to their sister club.

O’Neil is poised to take charge of a stable team that is aiming for European competition in Ligue 1, as Rosenior did prior to his move to Chelsea.

He stated: “[Strasbourg] is a beautiful city with wonderful people and a great club. I enjoyed every moment.”

“The players were fantastic. I genuinely wish the best for this club. I don’t know if this will be my last match; in life, you can never be certain.”

After being introduced by Chelsea, he expressed that he felt “honored and humbled” to be entrusted with such a significant position after signing an extensive five-and-a-half-year contract.

He added: “This club has a unique spirit and a proud tradition of winning trophies.”

“My responsibility is to uphold that identity and build a team that embodies these values in every match we play as we strive to continue winning trophies.”

“I can’t wait to meet all of you and to get started.”

Who is Gary O’Neil?

Gary O’Neil is a former manager of Bournemouth and has recently been appointed as the head coach of Strasbourg.

What was Liam Rosenior's role at Strasbourg?

Liam Rosenior served as the head coach of Strasbourg for two years, achieving the club's highest-ever finish of seventh place last season.

Why did Rosenior leave Strasbourg?

Rosenior left Strasbourg to take the head coach position at Chelsea.

What are O’Neil's goals as the new head coach?

O’Neil aims to work hard with the players to achieve success for the club and has clear ambitious objectives for the season.