Fabregas Chelsea: Chelsea warned against appointing ex-midfielder after Rosenior setback

Chelsea told to avoid Cesc Fabregas move as Como concerns emerge over next manager search

Chelsea’s search for a new manager has already sparked plenty of debate, and Cesc Fabregas is one of the names drawing attention, but also some caution.

The former Blues midfielder is earning growing praise for his work in Italy, yet there are doubts about whether Stamford Bridge is the right next step just yet.

With another managerial change already unfolding during the 2025–26 season, Chelsea find themselves once again assessing their options at the top of the dugout.

It’s becoming a familiar cycle for a club still trying to settle under Todd Boehly’s ownership.

Another reset at Stamford Bridge

Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior have both been moved on during the current campaign, continuing a pattern of short-lived appointments in west London.

Maresca did bring success during his time in charge, guiding the club to both Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup victories, but it wasn’t enough to secure long-term backing.

Rosenior’s spell was even shorter, lasting just 23 games before his departure.

Despite sitting outside the Premier League’s top seven, Chelsea remain an attractive job for many coaches. Financial backing is still expected to be strong heading into the next transfer window, meaning whoever takes over will have the tools to reshape the squad quickly.

Fabregas’ rise in Italy

Fabregas has quietly built a growing reputation at Como, where his early coaching work has impressed observers.

At 39, he is seen as one of the more promising young coaches in European football, blending ideas from his playing career under several top managers into a clear style of play.

But not everyone is convinced the timing is right for a return to Stamford Bridge.

Former Chelsea defender Tony Dorigo has been among those urging patience, particularly after watching Como closely this season.

“They kind of fall apart”

Speaking exclusively to GOAL via APWin, Dorigo raised concerns about Como’s ability to manage high-pressure moments despite their attractive football under Fabregas.

“I’ve watched Como play often this season, and their coach is clearly doing an excellent job. They have a wonderful way of playing football. The coach’s ideas from his various experiences have all combined well, creating a truly good team.

“However, Dorigo also mentioned a repeated problem in important matches. It’s interesting because whenever Como gets ahead or leads in these major games, they often lose their advantage.

“For example, in the Inter game, they were 2-0 up but lost 4-2. In the Coppa Italia, they were again 2-0 up, only to lose 3-2. So, they seem to be missing something crucial.”

“It’s that inconsistency, particularly in big moments, that he believes would be exposed even more at Chelsea.

Why Chelsea might need experience first

Dorigo also pointed to the pressure cooker environment at Stamford Bridge, suggesting it may come too soon for Fabregas despite his clear potential.

“And what I would say, he’s under a different sort of pressure at Como. Going to a club like Chelsea straight away, I think would be a little too much. I think he’s going to be a great manager. He’ll get them into Europe, I think – Como, they’re going for the Champions League, but they’ll probably end up Europa.

“I think he should get a bit more experience because when I talk about styles and wonderful young managers, I could have mentioned the previous manager [Rosenior] – and look what happened there.”

He added that while Fabregas understands elite players, the demands at Chelsea are on another level entirely.

“You go back to Graham Potter at Brighton, incredible manager, knows the Premier League inside out, goes to Chelsea and you’re dealing with a different level of player and mentality.”

For Dorigo, the conclusion is simple for now.

“I would look elsewhere, but in the future, for sure.”

Chelsea still have a season to finish

While planning continues behind the scenes, Chelsea still have competitive business to complete. Interim boss Calum McFarlane has guided the club to an FA Cup final, adding a late twist to an inconsistent campaign.

Before that showpiece at Wembley, Chelsea face a demanding run-in: Liverpool at Anfield, Manchester City at Wembley again, a home meeting with Tottenham, and a final trip to Sunderland.

How that finishes may yet influence who gets the job next but for now, the message from outside the club is clear: Cesc Fabregas may be one for the future, not the immediate solution.