Should Wales Be Looking for a New Manager Following World Cup Debacle?

There can be no denying that Wales’ stint at the 2022 FIFA World Cup was a disappointment. A point in the first game against the USA courtesy of Gareth Bale’s late penalty gave the Red Dragons an ideal start to life in Qatar. Unfortunately, however, that was as good as it got. A shock defeat to Iran in the second group game — a game in which the Welsh were uncharacteristically poor — left Rob Page’s side all but eliminated. Then a 3-0 drubbing at the hands of England rubbed salt into the wound.

As such, question marks now hang over the head of manager Page. The fact that the former Sheffield United central defender led his nation to the World Cup for the first time in 64 years is something that should be applauded. But his side had a group that presented a real opportunity to progress to the knockout stages, and the failure to do that cannot be overlooked.

Another manager that has come in for criticism in the aftermath of the World Cup is Gareth Southgate. The current England boss has led England to their first World Cup semi final in 28 years, as well as a first major final since 1966. But their disappointing 2-1 defeat in the quarter finals to France has led many to question whether the former Middlesbrough boss is the right man to lead England into the future.

Who should take over from Page?

The problem the Welsh FA currently has is who would replace Rob Page? It would be a huge piece of sporting news if they did decide to pull the trigger and part ways, but to whom would they turn? Perhaps a return for Chris Coleman could be the solution. The former Fulham boss led Wales to the semifinals of the European Championships in 2016, before leaving for Sunderland. Since then, his stock has fallen considerably, and a reunion could be beneficial to both Coleman and Wales.

Could someone like Kenny Jackett do a job in the hot seat? The English-born manager made 31 appearances for Wales during his playing career and has an impressive resume in English league football. He has managed numerous clubs to promotion throughout his 26-year managerial career. He also led Portsmouth to EFL Trophy glory back in 2019 and he is currently out of work, meaning no compensation would have to be paid to a club.