After the abrupt and chaotic sacking of Liam Rosenior – which lasted just 106 days – Chelsea’s management needs to go back to the drawing board.
With interim boss Calum McFarlane currently holding the fort and, remarkably, having guided the team to the FA Cup final, the search for a permanent saviour has sparked a massive managerial war behind the scenes.
Read: Arsenal prepare €250 million that will revolutionise their attacking line
According to sources close to the player community, who have spoken to CaughtOffside, Chelsea’s board is frantically trying to lock in a figure who can finally restore order, bring back the intense and winning atmosphere at the Bridge, and at the same time survive the high-pressure environment that is West London.
As the list of candidates narrows, the competition becomes increasingly intense.
Andoni Iraola is the main candidate for the Chelsea job
Right now, the man at the very top of his wish list is Andoni Iraola. The Spanish tactician has already confirmed that he will leave Bournemouth at the end of the season after a brilliant spell, and reports suggest that he has already given the Chelsea project the green light.
Still, there is a strong warning with sitting in Chelsea’s coach’s box.
It’s a big gamble for the 43-year-old, but the lure of the Chelsea job may simply be too strong to refuse. (read huge paybag)
Fabrizio Romano recently reported that Iraola will be open to a move to Manchester United – which could ruin Chelsea’s plans.
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Former midfielder Fabregas is another name on the list
There wouldn’t be a Chelsea managerial hunt without a good dose of romance.
Cesc Fàbregas is a very real target – he is seen as both an emotional hire and a sharp tactical mind.
The biggest challenge? Como’s board is currently fighting tooth and nail to block his departure – but Chelsea are keeping up the pressure.
Meanwhile, rumours in the club’s boardroom are whispering that some voices are actively pushing to bring back club legends such as John Terry or Frank Lampard, hoping that their legendary status alone can inject some much-needed fighting spirit into a fragile and vulnerable dressing room environment.
