Chelsea are set to contact a host of different managerial candidates, but one former Everton boss has been dubbed a ‘genuine’ contender for the job.
Chelsea begin early stage of managerial hunt
Chelsea’s search for yet another manager is already gathering pace, with the club moving quickly after dismissing Liam Rosenior following a disastrous run of results.
The decision came after five straight league defeats without scoring, leaving the Blues drifting away from their targets and prompting urgent action from the hierarchy.
For a club that has churned through multiple head coaches in recent years, this latest reset feels both familiar and significant.
Chelsea are once again trying to strike the right balance between long-term vision and immediate results, a challenge that has repeatedly complicated their recruitment strategy.
Early indications suggest this will not be a rushed appointment.
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The Blues have spoken to him before.
Instead, the club are expected to speak to a wide range of candidates before settling on their preferred option, with several names already under consideration across the Premier League and beyond.
The likes of Andoni Iraola, Cesc Fàbregas and Filipe Luís have all been linked in recent days, highlighting the variety of profiles being discussed internally, and even Antonio Conte has been floated as a shock option by the Italian press.
Reports suggest players are keen for a more authoritative figure to take charge, someone capable of handling a demanding dressing room and restoring direction after a turbulent spell.
That desire for experience and presence could play a key role in shaping the final decision.
Despite the growing list of contenders, it is believed no formal talks have taken place as the club began their process. That, however, is now starting to change.
One name is beginning to emerge more strongly too.
Marco Silva tipped as ‘genuine contender’ for Chelsea job
As per talkSPORT’s Ben Jacobs, Marco Silva is now understood to be a genuine contender for the role, and discussions are expected with him and a variety of other candidates as Chelsea step up their pursuit of a new head coach.
The Fulham boss, who is approaching the end of his current deal, has impressed with his steady work in the Premier League and could be a viable option.
Crucially, Silva’s situation makes him an attractive candidate.
The ex-Everton manager’s contract, which is due to expire at the end of 25/26, means negotiations could be relatively straightforward compared to other high-profile targets, while his familiarity with English football reduces the risk attached to the appointment.
The Portuguese, who has been called a ‘master‘ tactician by some players who have worked with him, was also rumoured to be high on Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis’ personal shortlist to replace Sean Dyche.
Still, Chelsea are not putting all their eggs in one basket.
Marco Silva’s overall managerial record
Total
Games managed
550
Wins
267
Draws
107
Losses
176
Goals scored
946
Goals conceded
716
Points
908
Points per match on average
1.65
via Transfermarkt
Multiple managers are expected to be spoken to, with the club keen to explore different options before making a final call. That approach reflects both caution and necessity, given the stakes involved.
For now, the process remains open.
Chelsea are casting the net wide, weighing up styles, personalities and long-term fit as they look to end another chapter of instability.
Whether Silva ultimately emerges as the chosen one remains to be seen, but his growing presence in the conversation is a clear sign that the race for the Stamford Bridge job is beginning to take shape.
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A former Chelsea player could arrive to replace Liam Rosenior.