Burnley’s pursuit of a new manager has been given a boost with Braga confirming the departure of former Premier League boss Carlos Carvalhal on Monday, as reported by The Athletic.
Fourth in the Primeira Liga, Europa League quarter-finalists and runners-up in the Portuguese Super Cup; 2021/22 has been a story of near-misses for the bridesmaids of Braga.
But, with his contract expiring, Carvalhal departs with his reputation greatly enhanced. Braga are not one of Portugal’s ‘big three’ after all. Silverware doesn’t come around every day.
And Taca de Portugal glory, in the club’s centenary year, means the well-travelled 56-year-old will always be remembered fondly at one of Europe’s most picturesque footballing arenas.
According to Portuguese publication Corriere do Manha, relegation-threatened Burnley could now offer the former Swansea City and Sheffield Wednesday coach another stab at English football.
Like many of the managers who have been linked with the Turf Moor outfit, Carvalhal has an impressive track record in England’s second tier, having taken Sheffield Wednesday into the Championship play-offs on two separate occasions.
Burnley manager target Carlos Carvalhal leaves Braga
“After the two years provided for in the contract, Carlos Carvalhal ceases his connection to the club,” reads a statement on behalf of Braga, who have been tipped to bring in Juventus legend Andrea Pirlo next term.
“The coach announced this Monday that he intends to close the cycle at SC Braga and embrace new sports projects.
“The conquest of the Portuguese Cup, in the middle of the centenary year, appears as an inalienable mark in the 101 years of the history of SC Braga, ensuring that Carlos Carvalhal’s contribution has a captive place in the gallery of achievements of our club.
“SC Braga thanks Carlos Carvalhal for all the work and dedication placed at the service of the club, praising the professional attitude as he always faced his tasks in leading the main team.”
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Carvalhal recently turned down an offer from Brazilian giants Flamengo for personal reasons. The affable 56-year-old is open to a return to England, however, with Burnley’s Lancastrian neighbours Blackburn Rovers another potential destination.
Slaven Bilic, Daniel Farke, Kjetil Knutsen and Vincent Kompany are also reportedly on Burnley’s short-list. Chris Wilder is staying at Middlesbrough however.
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