Andre Villas-Boas has become the sixth managerial casualty in eight years at Chelsea (4/1 – FA Cup Winners) as the ruthless search for Champions League success continues apace at Stamford Bridge.
The Portuguese paid the price for a string of poor displays at home and in Europe and now the hunt for another new manager begins, so who are the contenders for the Chelsea hotseat?
Jose Mourinho
The ex-Blues messiah still looks the most likely man to bring the European Cup to Stamford Bridge for the first time, but can Chelsea persuade Mourinho to return to the club?
The Real Madrid (5/2 – Champions League Outright) boss has recently hinted about a future return to England and was even spotted in London this month, reportedly searching for property.
Although many were tipping him to replace Harry Redknapp at Tottenham, the lure of a return to Chelsea may tempt him to west rather than north London.
Whether Roman Abramovich is keen to look to Mourinho again is another question, but the 49-year-old still seems the best option among the experienced runners and riders for the post.
Rafa Benitez
The Spaniard is among the favourites to succeed AVB, having been out of work since leaving Inter Milan in 2012 and his European pedigree is why he is near the top of the list of potential candidates.
Benitez led Liverpool to Champions League success in 2005, beating Chelsea in the semi-finals, and also took the Reds to the final in 2007. On top of that, the 51-year-old lifted the UEFA Cup during his time in charge of Valencia (7/1 – Europa League Winners).
Although Benitez is desperate to get back into management, the rivalry was fierce with Chelsea during his reign at Anfield and that may work against him.
Pep Guardiola
The Barcelona boss has indicated that he will step down from his post at the Nou Camp over the next couple of years, as he seeks a new challenge.
A two-time Champions League winner, Guardiola wants his team to play good football whilst being successful. The 41-year-old speaks fluent English and would demand the respect of the high-profile players at Stamford Bridge.
Barca (5/4f – Champions League Outright) would be loathe to lose him and would Chelsea’s owner be willing to give him time to build a Blues revolution?
Fabio Capello
The Italian is out of work following his decision to step down as England boss – a return to Italy is his preffered choice – but could he be tempted to give the Premier League a go?
The ex-AC Milan chief has enjoyed European and domestic success on several occasions during his time at both the San Siro and during his reign at Real Madrid. His relationship with Chelsea’s England (8/1 – Euro 2012 Outright) contingent may also tempt Blues officials to consider the 65-year-old.
Capello has had his run ins with star players during previous stints with big clubs and his strict regime has often frustrated today’s high-profile players.
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