Quite a long list of managers have been linked with the Chelsea job since Liam Rosenior got sacked. Now, it does not have that world-class name that would get the fans out of their seats. But there are quite a few options you would expect to be successful at Stamford Bridge. Is Eddie Howe one of them?
Howe has faced heavy criticism from a section of the Newcastle United fanbase lately. And one has to feel that it is a bit unfair considering the job he has done there.
Howe won the League Cup with Newcastle United, which was their first trophy in 56 years. He also became the first English manager with a major honour since Harry Redknapp back in 2008. But it is not just cup success he has enjoyed with the Magpies.
In his three full seasons as Newcastle United manager, he has never finished below 7th. For context, the Magpies had finished in the top half of the table in the top flight just thrice in the decade prior to Howe’s arrival. So, one could argue that he has overachieved. And if he does leave, it could have a similar effect to David Moyes’ West Ham United exit.
Would Chelsea make a move for Howe?
It is unlikely that Chelsea would make a move for a big-name coach this summer. And Howe has shown during his time at Newcastle United that he can work within a model without rocking the boat. That might make the appointment even more attractive to BlueCo who have already parted with several managers due to disagreements behind the scenes.
Paul Merson appears to believe that Chelsea would happily take Howe as manager, if he did become available. According to the Standard, he said on Sky Sports:
“I’m a big fan of Eddie Howe and if he leaves, they will be queuing up around the corner. Be careful Newcastle.
“Chelsea would take him all day long. We were talking about him being the next England manager. Everyone will be queuing up to take him.
“It should be his decision if he wants to leave. He won a trophy for the club for the first time in 70 years.”
Would Howe be a good manager for Chelsea?
That is an interesting question for sure. Howe has shown that he has the ability to keep a decent squad in the European spots. But is he capable of taking the next step with them?
If so, then Chelsea might be a good spot for him. The club need some stability, and Howe’s long run at Newcastle United does show that he is capable of keeping a squad happy and on his side for a long time.
That being said, there are many fans who believe that Chelsea should be aiming higher after the failures of the past four seasons. Yes, Howe would be an experienced appointment. But he is not necessarily a winning one.
