Chelsea is struggling to achieve wins under Frank Lampard, and the caretaker boss is facing a potential exit from the Champions League. After two consecutive defeats to Wolves and Brighton, it seems unlikely that the club legend will remain at Stamford Bridge beyond this season. Therefore, let’s take a look at the potential candidates in the frame to take over as the next Chelsea boss.
Julian Nagelsmann
Julian Nagelsmann is one of the top favorites to become the next Chelsea boss. After his successful stint at Hoffenheim and RB Leipzig, he won the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich in 2021-22. However, he was sacked last month, and reports suggest talks have already taken place with Chelsea. His aggressive style of play would be welcomed at the Bridge, but there is some concern over Nagelsmann’s experience at the top level.
Luis Enrique
Another top candidate for the hot seat is former Spain and Barcelona head coach Luis Enrique.
The seasoned Spaniard has been out of a job since leaving his role with the national team after they crashed out of the World Cup in Qatar last year. His tiki-taka style of play would see his side look to dominate possession, and he would garner immediate respect thanks to his tally of seven major trophies at Barca.
Jose Mourinho
Jose Mourinho is open to a sensational return to Chelsea for a third spell in the dugout.
The Roma boss won the Premier League in both of his previous two stints in charge of the Blues. His winning record and relationship with the fans would tick all the right boxes, and sentimental reasons may be the driving factor behind the idea of Mourinho’s return.
Marcelo Gallardo
Marcelo Gallardo would be a surprising appointment, but he boasts an impressive CV. He spent eight years in charge of River Plate and won a hatful of major honors in Argentina, including a league title and two Copa Libertadores crowns.
The 47-year-old Argentine favors possession-based football and is willing to be patient with build-up play. Although Gallardo has never managed outside of South America, he could be a risk worth taking.
Chelsea is looking for a new boss who can lead them to success. Nagelsmann, Enrique, Mourinho, and Gallardo are all potential candidates who could bring different strengths to the role. It remains to be seen who will be chosen, but the decision will be critical for the club’s future success.