Jose Mourinho’s departure from Chelsea is expected to be followed by confirmation of Guus Hiddink’s arriving as interim manager.
The club sit just one point above the Barclays Premier League relegation zone after losing nine of 16 games this season.
We take a look at the candidates listed to succeed the self-proclaimed Special One on a long-term basis.
- Pep Guardiola
The former Barcelona boss was reportedly coveted by Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich while on sabbatical before the former Spain midfielder opted for Bayern Munich. His contract with the Bavarians ends this summer and speculation of a switch to Manchester City is growing in strength. But Chelsea may still try to tempt him.
- Diego Simeone
The former Argentina midfielder has enjoyed a fine period as Atletico Madrid boss, breaching the duopoly of Barcelona and Real Madrid with an attractive style, while beating Chelsea in the UEFA Super Cup and Champions League in the process. The Blues have looked to Atletico for players, now for a manager?
- Carlo Ancelotti
The Italian, who won the 2010 Premier League and FA Cup double with Chelsea and finished second the following season before being sacked, is available after leaving Real Madrid. He was popular at Stamford Bridge and apparently wishes to return to England.
- Fabio Capello
The autocratic Italian’s reputation in England is far from strong after his poor reign as national team boss. But his club pedigree with AC Milan and Real Madrid is good and he is still in touch with his former England captain John Terry. He is out of work after leaving Russia and could be an interim option.
- John Terry
The club captain, now 35, has been reading management books for the last few years and recently had Sir Alex Ferguson’s Leading for company on a flight back from a match.
