Just thought it could do with it's own thread. Rafa's the favourite but I don't think he will be the choice and if he is I certainly don't see it as a permanent appointment. It's clear Abramovich wants Chelsea to produce the kind of technical football Barca have so I think the new manager will have to be in the Guardiola mould. That rules out 'Arry, a name that always crops up when a Chelsea manager is sacked. I think you will get Guardiola this time, Abramovich will throw money at him until Pep agrees. If it doesn't work out then I'd expect Klopp to be the next to have money thrown at him and I wouldn't be surprised if that works.
An ideal situation would be someone like Hiddink to come in and revamp the side like he did before and have Jose at the end of the season. Not going to happen though, got a terrible feeling it will be Rafa, possibly even 'Arry.
Let's look at who's in the running:- Harry Redknapp - his name is bound to come up, and despite what you Chelsea boys may think, Mad-Dog has got to consider him. He managed to out-fox both AVB and RDM last season, by helping us finish 4th in the EPL, two places ahead of Chelsea. The big bonus for you is that Harry is quite the mercenary, so he won't be put off by the fact that his appointment will be cut short in 9 months' time. Rafa Benitez - everyones favourite clown. Never really did anything with 'Pool when he was in charge of them, but did manage to keep them in the CL most seasons. He's a bit like Whinger, in that respect. He's someone that Chelsea fans might warm to, if given the time (which, obviously, he won't be). Would definitely be the neutral fans' choice, if only for the comedy value. Sparky - about to be sacked by QPR, so would definitely consider the Chelsea job. Being a club legend would make him popular with the fans. Roy Keane - he's available, if you want him. Alan Shearer - ditto. The Special One - a huge favourite with you Chelsea boys, I know, but I can't see it happening. We all know that he is being groomed for Fergie's long-term replacement, let's not kid ourselves, here; and I rather suspect that too many bridges had been burnt between him and Mad-Dog. Pepe Guardiola - he's probably the one that most of you want, and it's easy to understand why. However, let's be realistic about this. He's on a long sabbatical, and has already made it clear that the will not cut it short. Plus, he can walk into any club in the world, one that will honour its contract with him, and not sack him for merely winning the CL. Yes, Mad-Dog will be prepared to pay big bucks to get him, but would Pepe be willing to join Chelsea at any price, when he knows that he's dealing with a child in a man's body who demands instant gratification? Have I missed anyone off the list?
The last 3 I have removed as its not going to happen. Certainly not midseason. Hughes I left as hes down that end at the minute, worked with money clubs and as you say a chelsea old boy. Benitez will be the one though and our thoughts are with Chelsea.
You pair are stupid as **** if you think Hughes is anywhere near the shortlist, I expect this **** from HIAG but UIR **** sake.
I dont think he is but from his list he was more likely than Keane and the big 2 considering its November with Mourinho and I dont think Pep will go back on his word. Hughes would be last ditch in an effort to save yourselves from Rafa who RHC has said a reported mate of his has said Rafa is Chelsea manager.
I've got that sinking feeling that all roads lead to Rafa. Realistically there aren't many choices mid season for a top manager and no way Pep will come til the summer...if at all. Could be worse though, could be Dalglish!!
Why would we sign a manager who currently manages QPR who haven't won a game this season under him? Use your head.
Why would you sack a manager when you are 3rd in November and current reigning European Champs? Strange world is football, especially at Chelsea.
Cos we're dropping down the league, can't buy a win and about to be the first holders to go out in the group stage. We don't all agree with it but it's less senseless than when Jose was sacked IMO.
It's clear we didn't want RDM in the first place, him winning the double made it impossible for the board to get rid of him and plus Rafa and Pep both said no (or something along those lines). Had it been Pep in this situation, he 100% would not have been sacked.
