Chelsea have moved to replace Liam Rosenior following five consecutive league defeats, with Antonio Conte emerging as a prime candidate to return to Stamford Bridge this summer.
While Chelsea have appointed Calum McFarlane as interim head coach through the 2025/26 season, the West London outfit plan to recruit a top-tier replacement before next campaign. According to Italian outlet Calciomercato, Chelsea are exploring the possibility of appointing Antonio Conte, who previously managed the club between 2016 and 2018 and delivered the Premier League title with 93 points in 2016/17.
The Italian manager currently holds a contract with Napoli until 2027, and negotiations could prove complex as Chelsea approach the Serie A champions. Conte guided Napoli to the Serie A title with 82 points in the 2024/25 season, and he has established himself as a world-class tactical leader. His proven ability to restore stability and winning culture across multiple elite clubs positions him as an ideal appointment for Chelsea’s current situation.
The Blues’ project lacks directional consistency, and they have struggled to compete at the elite level. They require a manager capable of rebuilding competitive standing and challenging for domestic and European silverware. Conte’s extensive experience and proven track record in developing young talent while maintaining immediate success would address both short and long-term objectives. Napoli will resist losing him without substantial compensation.
Conte’s International Opportunity vs Chelsea Job
Conte simultaneously faces interest from the Italian national team. The Azzurri have missed successive World Cup qualifications (2018, 2022), and federation officials view Conte as a potential catalyst for renaissance. The prospect of managing his homeland presents compelling motivation, though Chelsea must construct an attractive proposal to compete for his commitment.
Chelsea possess talented young players requiring experienced mentorship to maximize their potential. Rosenior’s appointment appeared promising on paper but lacked the tactical sophistication and winning mentality necessary for sustained success at elite level. Conte’s leadership and proven ability to extract performance from developing talent offer a transformative pathway forward.
Furthermore, Chelsea’s potential exclusion from UEFA Champions League qualification next season could complicate player recruitment efforts. However, securing a manager of Conte’s stature and reputation would significantly enhance their appeal to prospective signings and accelerate competitive recovery.
Conte’s previous Premier League assignment with Tottenham Hotspur ended acrimoniously following disputes with chairman Daniel Levy over strategic direction. Nevertheless, as Chelsea pursue managerial candidates, reuniting with a serial winner of Conte’s calibre could represent the decisive move required to stabilize their trajectory and restore Stamford Bridge as a genuine championship contender.