Roman Abramovich is expected to visit Chelsea’s training ground next week as the club move closer to appointing a new manager to take over next season.
The Chelsea owner is understood to be meeting key personnel to discuss options as Chelsea finalise their shortlist for the job, with David Moyes and Real
Madrid’s Jose Mourinho under consideration, while Malaga manager Manuel Pellegrini is seen as an outside bet.
Madrid’s Jose Mourinho under consideration, while Malaga manager Manuel Pellegrini is seen as an outside bet.
Candidates are now being discussed by the board, with chairman Bruce Buck
and chief executive Ron Gourlay leading the search — although Abramovich will have the final say.
and chief executive Ron Gourlay leading the search — although Abramovich will have the final say.
Quest: Roman Abramovich is expected to visit Chelsea's Cobham base as the club search for a new manager
Moyes is a serious contender after 11 years at Everton. He has not begun talks over extending his contract at Goodison, saying he will do so at the end of the season.
Mourinho’s comeback as boss would be the appointment fans would most welcome. Although his relationship with Abramovich is said to be good, there are concerns over how they could work together again, given the control Mourinho expects to exert over the first team.
Interim: Rafa Benitez's side were beaten 2-1 by Southampton on Saturday
Chilean Pellegrini was outstanding at Villarreal and they reached the Champions League semi-finals under him. He also did a stint at Real Madrid before taking over at Malaga, who play Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League quarter- finals this week.
His achievement is more remarkable given Malaga’s serious financial problems that led to the sale of Santi Cazorla to Arsenal.
