Liam Rosenior's First Six Matches at Chelsea. And Possible lineup, Tactical Approach

Liam Rosenior’s arrival at Chelsea has energized the fanbase and stirred excitement in West London, although many have mixed reactions to the Chelsea board securing his services at the club as a head coach, not minding his tactics as they suit Chelsea’s pattern of play. With a busy January schedule that spans the Premier League, FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and the Champions League, the new head coach will be tested early—and his first six matches could set the tone for his tenure.

Here are Chelsea’s next six confirmed fixtures that Liam Rosenior will realistically take charge of as head coach, based on the latest official schedules: Climopredict.com

Fulham vs Chelsea – Premier League – January 7, 2026
Charlton Athletic vs Chelsea – FA Cup Third Round – January 10, 2026 (Sky Sports)
Chelsea vs Arsenal – Carabao Cup Semi-Final – January 14, 2026
Chelsea vs Brentford – Premier League – January 17, 2026
Chelsea vs Pafos – UEFA Champions League – January 21, 2026 (Acca Planner)
Crystal Palace vs Chelsea – Premier League – January 25, 2026 9jaProPredict

1. Fulham vs Chelsea – Premier League – January 7
Rosenior’s debut comes in a London derby at Craven Cottage. Fulham are always tough at home, and Chelsea have been inconsistent this season. But a fresh manager bounce and renewed intensity could deliver an opening win if Chelsea seizes control early.
Predicted result: Win

2 Charlton Athletic vs Chelsea – FA Cup Third Round – January 10
FA Cup ties are tricky, but this is a golden opportunity for Rosenior to rotate the squad and build confidence. Charlton’s lower-league status means Chelsea should be able to dominate possession and claim a comfortable victory.
Predicted result: Win

3 Chelsea vs Arsenal – Carabao Cup Semi-Final – January 14
Facing Arsenal in a semi-final is a defining early test. Arsenal has quality and tempo, meaning Rosenior’s tactical nous will be under scrutiny. This might be tight and could go to extra time or penalties, but a gritty Chelsea performance is expected.
Predicted result: Draw (Extra time/penalty test)

4 Chelsea vs Brentford – Premier League – January 17
Back at Stamford Bridge, Brentford’s physical style often frustrates bigger clubs. Rosenior’s team may control the ball, but breaking down compact defending could be harder than expected. Still, Chelsea’s firepower gives them an edge.
Predicted result: Win

5 Chelsea vs Pafos – UEFA Champions League – January 21
European nights bring drama and expectation. At home, Chelsea should aim to assert authority early. Pafos are unlikely to match Chelsea’s quality over 90 minutes, and a confident attacking performance could yield all three points.
Predicted result: Win

6 Crystal Palace vs Chelsea – Premier League – January 25
Rosenior’s group now travels to Selhurst Park, where Palace are tough to beat and thrive on intensity. This one could be tight and hinge on Chelsea’s ability to control midfield and counter effectively.
Predicted result: Draw

Projected Record After Six Matches
• Wins: 4
• Draws: 2
• Losses: 0

A start like that—four wins and two draws in Rosenior’s first six games—would be exceptional for a new boss stepping into one of Europe’s most demanding managerial jobs. It would lift morale, stabilize Chelsea’s league position, and build momentum across competitions. Fans would see tactical structure, improved decision-making, and fighting spirit in every game.

Importantly, winning in multiple competitions early helps Rosenior buy trust from supporters and players alike. Whether it’s Premier League grit, FA Cup rotation success, a tough cup tie with Arsenal, or a big European night, this January run could define his first chapter at Stamford Bridge.

Liam Rosenior’s Potential Lineup Setup at Chelsea

Preferred Formation

3 4 2 1

Rosenior has consistently leaned toward a back three system that offers defensive stability while allowing width and controlled build-up. This shape suits Chelsea’s current squad and reduces exposure during transition.