Newcastle, Fulham and Zenit managers among the candidates to replace Slaven Bilic at West Ham – but who is the best option?
Slaven Bilic, manager of West Ham United.
Following West Ham United’s 3-0 defeat to Newcastle United in their last Premier League game before the international break, the Sun reported Slaven Bilic faced the sack.
It was a result that left the Hammers bottom of the table after three losses from their first three outings, during which time they had conceded 10 goals.
Although yet to be removed Bilic from his position, if the Croatian were to be given the push who would be his best replacement?
Rafa Benitez is seen during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and West Ham United.
Rafa Benitez
According to the Express, Benitez is the leading candidate for the job having become increasingly disillusioned at Newcastle following a frustrating summer in the transfer market following promotion from the Championship.
However, the stumbling block could be the £5m compensation the Magpies would be owed should the Spaniard leave St James’ Park before his two-year contract is up – according to the Daily Mail.
Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic.
Slavisa Jokanovic
The West Ham board are long-term admirers of the Fulham boss, reports the Express, after his impressive showing last term in which he guided the Cottagers to the second tier playoffs against the odds.
The 49-year-old’s free-flowing and attacking style should please fans at the London Stadium as well, although getwestlondon says that Jokanovic would also cost £5m in compensation to prise away from Craven Cottage.
Roberto Mancini
A English title winner from his time with Manchester City, Mancini is now at Zenit St Petersburg following a year away from football, but the Evening Standard believes the Italian is the frontrunner should Bilic leave.
The East Londoners have considered the 52-year-old before and he certainly has plenty of experience in the division, although what it would cost to bring him in from Zenit is unknown.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
