Strasbourg: Liam Rosenior announced Tuesday that he has reached a verbal agreement to become the new manager of Chelsea, confirming his departure from Ligue 1 side Strasbourg to take over the vacant post at Stamford Bridge.

The 41-year-old Englishman is set to succeed Enzo Maresca, who was dismissed by the London club on New Year's Day. Speaking at a press conference in Strasbourg, Rosenior revealed that while the formal contract has not yet been signed, a deal is in place and expected to be finalised within hours.

"I was given permission to speak to one of the biggest sporting clubs in the world," Rosenior said. "It looks like I am going to be the next manager of that football club (Chelsea). I haven't signed yet, I have agreed verbally with Chelsea."

The move marks a major step for Rosenior, who has spent the last 18 months in France. His appointment is facilitated by the shared ownership of both clubs under the BlueCo consortium. Rosenior acknowledged the unusual nature of his public announcement prior to a formal signing.

"It's really important, this is different to anything anyone has ever done, nobody has made a statement before they have signed a contract," he added. "Everything is agreed, and it will probably go through in the next few hours. I'm here because I care about this club (Strasbourg) and I felt it was right to answer your questions physically here today before I move on."

Rosenior confirmed he will be bringing several key members of his backroom staff to London, including assistants Kalifa Cissé and Justin Walker, as well as head of analysis Ben Warner.

"I would not be in this position without my unbelievable staff," Rosenior said. "I have never met a person with such emotional intelligence as I have with Kalifa. Sadly for Strasbourg, he is coming with me."

Despite receiving interest from other teams, including those in the UEFA Champions League, Rosenior stated that the lure of Stamford Bridge was irresistible. "I will love this club for the rest of my life, but I cannot turn down Chelsea," he said.