Liam Rosenior is optimistic that Chelsea will retain their key players this summer, even amidst a recent downturn that has put their Champions League qualification at risk.
The Blues are struggling to secure a spot in the Premier League’s top five, having won only one of their last five matches, which has led to a drop to sixth place before their upcoming match against Everton.
Following a devastating 8-2 aggregate loss to Paris Saint-Germain, marking the club’s worst European defeat ever, midfielder Enzo Fernández expressed uncertainty about his future at Stamford Bridge during an interview with ESPN in Argentina.
Earlier in January, there were reports suggesting that Cole Palmer felt homesick in London and preferred a return to Manchester. However, Rosenior denied claims that the England international was looking to leave.
Both players are under long-term contracts; Fernández has five years left on his deal from his record-breaking £107 million ($143m) transfer from Benfica in 2023, while Palmer is tied to the club until 2032 after a contract extension two years ago.
However, the recent crushing defeat to the European champions exposed the significant gap between Chelsea and the continent’s elite, and whether they can keep their best players may heavily depend on their qualification for next season’s Champions League.
“I have an excellent rapport with the players, and we communicate regularly,” Rosenior stated on Thursday, noting that Fernández had conveyed his happiness at Chelsea.
“We discuss not just football and contracts, but their lives, children, and schooling as well,” he added.
“I maintain a close relationship with Enzo and the other players. Throughout my time here, none have expressed a desire to leave the club in the summer.
Conversely, our conversations predominantly focus on improving as a group and strategizing for our current challenges.”
When asked if Fernández and Palmer wanted to stay, he affirmed: “They enjoy it here.”
Failing to secure a Champions League spot would mark the club’s third missed opportunity in four seasons and could lead to tighter financial constraints.
In addition to diminished revenue, they would also face increased pressure to adhere to UEFA’s financial regulations regarding income and expenditure.
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Rosenior refrained from addressing whether the club might be compelled to sell players should they fail to qualify, emphasizing that their fate in the top five remains in their control.
“In discussions with the ownership and sporting directors, our future plans won’t hinge solely on Champions League qualification,” he clarified.
“Yet, there are many variables in play. Our goal is to create the most favorable outcomes possible, so we remain in a strong position.”