Chelsea are one of the most prestigious football clubs in England and every year, their supporters and board expect the team to challenge for trophies. After cruising to the Premier League crown last season, many expected the Blues to defend their title as Jose Mourinho looked to build a dynasty at Stamford Bridge.
However, Chelsea have been bitterly disappointing throughout the opening half of the campaign and Mourinho has lost his job at Stamford Bridge. Guus Hiddink has been named as the interim head coach but many are already asking; who’s up next for Chelsea? We take a look at some candidates.
Okay, so who is the most sought after manager in world football right now? Pep Guardiola. The Bayern Munich boss has announced that he will leave the Allianz Arena at the end of the current campaign and England’s elite clubs – including Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United – are all in the hunt for the former Barcelona boss.
At the time of writing, it looks like Guardiola may end up at one of the two Manchester clubs – potentially Manchester City. In most of the football betting markets, he is less than even money to be plying his trade at the Etihad Stadium next season. However, if anybody can lure him to another club, it is Roman Abramovich. Punters looking for value could consider placing any free football bets on Guardiola to move to Stamford Bridge. That way, you will still stand a chance of good profit but with no financial risk.
Another top candidate is Diego Simeone. The Atletico Madrid boss has done a great job in Spain throughout the last few years but may be looking for a new challenge. It is almost impossible to break the dominance of Barcelona and Real Madrid and Simeone achieved just that as Atletico won the La Liga crown back in 2014.
It wouldn’t be a huge surprise to see Abramovich approach Simeone in the coming months, however the Argentine has revealed his love for the Spanish club and a move may be unlikely. The Premier League is lacking charismatic, energetic managers right now and – if nothing else – Simeone would certainly be a breath of fresh air on the touchline.
Unfortunately though, it may not be plausible for now.
Finally, why should Abramovich overlook Hiddink on a permanent basis? Since the Dutchman took over, Chelsea are unbeaten in four straight games and the Blues are playing some great football. In their 3-0 victory away at Crystal Palace, Hiddink’s men looked like the Chelsea of old and it would take a brave man to suggest that Abramovich won’t just stick with the Dutchman this time around.
As of January 7th, Hiddink’s Chelsea are priced at 13/2 to win the FA Cup this season. Many punters will be considering a wager on the Blues after their improved form and free football bets and more can be found at Betway’s website. If they continue to improve and build confidence at Stamford Bridge, there’s absolutely no reason why Chelsea cannot go all the way to Wembley this season.
So; Guardiola, Simeone or Hiddink? While Chelsea fans would love Guardiola, it’s unlikely to happen. Simeone is a real possibility if Abramovich can tempt him away and Hiddink remains an outside chance if he performs well throughout the remainder of the campaign. One thing’s for sure: despite their poor efforts on the field, it’s an exciting time to be a Chelsea fan now and the future bodes well for all at Stamford Bridge.