The forum's verdict on Chelsea's next boss

Who will become the seventh Chelsea manager of the Roman Abramovich era? Carlo Ancelotti was sacked on Sunday and there has been plenty of discussion on the Betfair football forum about his successor...

"If Andre Villas Boas ([8.2]) hadn't said he wanted to stay with Porto he would be odds-on in my opinion. He may want to as well, but the conversation with Mr Abramovich's representatives will soon change his mind. He will be the next Chelsea manager. None of the other candidates even come close to fulfilling the criteria needed." - marychain1

"My information, although it is five weeks old now is: Guus Hiddink ([4.3]) has recommended Marco van Basten ([3.8]). Harry Redknapp ([7.4]) is not on their shortlist. Jose Mourinho ([20.0]) was approached and said no. I have nothing on Villas Boas regrettably." - Alex the old wrinkled retainer

"Villas Boas has repeatedly said that he is staying next season. If he were to leave, he'd risk turning the fans of his club and his city against him. I think he will stay one more season, then everyone will be happy to let him go and do whatever he wants." - Imperialista

"Van Basten shouldn't be anywhere near the top of any shortlist. He didn't do particularly well as Holland manager and left Ajax after just one season when he didn't even get them into the Champions League." - Biscuit1979

"No one has been denying Carlo Ancelotti was in for the sack for ages and they sacked him with such haste that they surely have someone lined up. It has to be Rafael Benitez ([29.0]), he has been far too quiet." - NobbyClarke

"Didier Deschamps won the French league with Marseille, did fairly well with them in the Champions League this year, got Monaco to a Champions League Final and is an ex-Chelsea boy. At his price ([34.0]), it's well worth having a punt." - catazoid

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Published: 24 May 2011

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