Middlesbrough Step Up Managerial Search as Promotion Push Intensifies
MIDDLESBROUGH – Sitting firmly in second place and eyeing a genuine promotion challenge, Middlesbrough FC are accelerating their hunt for a new head coach after Rob Edwards’ surprise exit to Wolves earlier this week. With a key clash against Oxford United approaching, chairman Steve Gibson faces mounting pressure to maintain momentum — though club insiders insist no rushed appointment will be made, even if Boro enter the weekend without a permanent manager in place.
Edwards’ abrupt departure stunned players and fans, especially given the strong start that had supporters dreaming of a return to the top flight. The Welshman’s impressive run ultimately drew Premier League interest, and now the race to replace him has prompted a flurry of speculation, with bookmakers rapidly adjusting odds as new names enter the frame.
Leading the early shortlist is Gary O’Neil, whose tactical credentials at Bournemouth and Wolves — coupled with his history as a Boro academy graduate — have made him the favourite at 2/1. But it’s Steven Gerrard whose name has driven the most discussion, with odds tightening sharply following reports of exploratory talks. The former Liverpool captain, currently without a club after leaving Al-Ettifaq, has spoken openly about wanting the right project in England and prioritising significant control over recruitment and staffing — expectations that align with Gibson’s approach to previous high-profile hires.
Gerrard’s candidacy echoes Gibson’s track record of bold managerial appointments, reminiscent of the arrivals of Aitor Karanka and Steve McClaren. Pundit Ally McCoist has even labelled him a “standout choice.” Still, sceptics point to his mixed recent record in Saudi Arabia and the potential narrative wrinkles of facing old rivals such as Frank Lampard in future fixtures.
Another name attracting attention is Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink. The former Boro fan favourite — who scored 69 goals across two spells with the club — has reportedly gained momentum thanks to endorsements from figures like Gareth Southgate, who worked alongside him during their time with England. Hasselbaink is seen by supporters as a passionate short-term motivator, with several players privately backing his leadership style. Yet despite the enthusiasm, The Northern Echo reports he is no longer being seriously considered as the club look toward candidates with more Championship experience.
Talk has also circled back to Michael Carrick, whose odds briefly shortened following punditry suggesting a return could work. Though his tenure brought attractive football, defensive issues ultimately undermined his progress. While some fans would welcome his comeback, fresh reports indicate he is not in the running and may instead be exploring opportunities at Swansea and elsewhere.
Beyond the familiar names, an eclectic mix of candidates continues to surface. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has hinted he would consider a Championship challenge, Raphael Wicky offers a European coaching profile, and even Gareth Southgate has been listed by bookmakers — though his break from management makes that highly improbable. Carlos Corberan, currently with Valencia, has also been mentioned as a left-field but intriguing option.
With interviews reportedly ongoing and no final decision expected until early next week, Boro’s squad have remained focused, responding with a determined midweek victory that helped calm concerns. But with promotion within reach and the January transfer window looming, the identity of the next manager will significantly shape the club’s trajectory.
Whether Gibson opts for a marquee figure like Gerrard or a steady presence such as O’Neil, Middlesbrough supporters wait anxiously — eyes fixed on the league table, and on the ever-changing odds.