A look at who could replace Ronald Koeman as Southampton boss.
Everton manager Roberto Martinez with Southampton manager Ronald Koeman before the match
Southampton are searching for a new manager after Ronald Koeman was confirmed as Everton boss, by the club’s official website.
His exit has been discussed for over a month and does not come as a complete surprise, and the Saints are not likely to want to hang around long in appointing a replacement.
Bookies SkyBet have opened a betting market on who could be the next manager. Here are the top seven contenders at the time of writing…
Frank de Boer 7/4
Ajax coach Frank De Boer (R) during training
Another Dutch legend for Southampton? De Boer has just left Ajax where he has won four Eredivisie titles, and is keen on moving to the Premier League for a new challenge. He ended on a disappointing note after PSV clinched the title on the last day of the season.
Eddie Howe 3/1
Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe before the game
Would Eddie Howe really swap Bournemouth for rivals Southampton and become one of the most hated figures on the south coast in the process? It’s difficult to see, but the bookies believe it is a possibility.
Manuel Pellegrini 7/1
Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini
Already a Premier League champion as a manager, Manuel Pellegrini would be a man with a point to prove after being discarded by Manchester City. He would be a safe choice but will be highly coveted with other offers from abroad.
Vitor Pereira 8/1
Fenerbahce manager Vitor Pereira
Vitor Pereira is a highly respected coach in European football after successful spells with Porto and Fenerbahce. The chance to manage in the Premier League and enhance his reputation further could appeal.
Unai Emery 8/1
Sevilla coach Unai Emery during training
Unai Emery has won three Europa League titles in succession with Sevilla and has surprisingly stepped down as coach. The Guardian link him with PSG, who still have Laurent Blanc in position as manager.
Andre Villas-Boas 10/1
Picture Supplied by Action Images
After mixed spells with Chelsea and Tottenham, Andre Villas-Boas may be sick of the Premier League and English press. He restored his reputation with Zenit St Petersburg in Russia, and could seek to enhance it further at the Saints if he is up for the challenge.
David Moyes 11/1
Former Real Sociedad coach David Moyes
David Moyes said he is looking for the right club in his next role as manager, and there is a lot about Southampton to like. The former Everton boss has been out of work since managing Real Sociedad, and his last spell in England was at Manchester United.
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