Blackburn next manager: Ex-West Brom boss emerges as strong contender
Blackburn Rovers are looking for a new manager after John Eustace left to join Derby County last week.
The former Birmingham boss, who had been linked with the vacancy at West Brom before Tony Mowbray was appointed, departed Ewood Park to join the Rams on 13 February despite his side sitting fifth in the Championship.
Rovers could move quickly to get their preferred candidate as the longer the uncertainty goes on, the more impact it could have on their playoff push.
Valerian Ismael could get Blackburn job in stunning twist
Valerian Ismael came to The Hawthorns in June 2021 with considerable fanfare after guiding Barnsley to the 2020-2021 Championship playoffs.
However, his unwillingness to compromise led to conflict with senior players and the Frenchman left his position just eight months into a four-year contract.
The former centre-back led Albion to just 12 of 31 matches in his stint in the dugout and has since managed at Besiktas and Watford.
The former West Brom boss had been linked with a switch to Derby before Eustace was appointed and is now a leading candidate for the vacancy at Ewood Park according to the latest bookmakers’ odds.
The 49-year-old is 4/1 to become the next Blackburn manager with Bet Victor with former Wolves manager Gary O’Neill the favourite at 7/4.
Ismael has a lot to prove if he gets Blackburn job
The Frenchman had a very promising spell at Oakwell when he led the Tykes to a playoff berth but his career since has been nothing short of a disaster.
A dismal reign in the West Midlands after leaving Barnsley was following by one season at Besiktas in Turkey and his contract was not renewed.
In May 2023 he was appointed as Watford manager but was sacked after one league win in ten matches in March 2024.
| EFL Championship Stats (all-time) | Ismael |
| Wins | 46 |
| Draws | 25 |
| Losses | 33 |
| Points | 163 |
| Points per game | 1.57 |
Ismael does have a solid record of work in the division but given how his last three roles have worked out, it could be suggested that his best days are behind him.
The former Baggies man will need a big turnaround in his fortunes if he is appointed in Lancashire, his last two spells in the second tier do not inspire much hope.