Gianfranco Zola has emerged as the odds-on favourite to take on the role of Hull City manager. The club was left without a manager after Steve Bruce stepped down, and they’ve moved swiftly and offered Zola the job, according to reports.
Bruce, who was interviewed for the England job last month, guided the Tigers back into the Premier League, but stepped down as manager citing lack of investments at the football club as the reason for his exit.
Trending
Also Read: Credentials of the elite Premier League 2016-17 managers
Wales boss Chris Coleman was then expected to land the job but the Wales FA have denied any approach from Hull. Coleman, who took Wales to the semi-finals of Euro 2016, is under contract for another 2 years. David Griffiths, president of FAW spoke to WalesOnline, saying, “The simple fact of the matter is that there is a contract in place. He shouldn't be speaking to anybody else and they most definitely should not be speaking to Chris without coming to us first for permission.”
The FAW president was optimistic about holding on to their manager, “I know Chris very well, have done for many years since he was coming through the ranks with Swansea, and we fully expect him to be in charge through the World Cup qualifying campaign. Chris is our man for the next two years and knows he still has a job to finish with us.”
Coleman’s unavailability has led to Zola being tipped for a return to the Premier League to fill up the vacant Hull managerial role.
The Chelsea legend who had a glittering career as a player has not enjoyed success as a manager. The Italian had brief spells at West Ham and Watford but was dismissed from both clubs. Hoping for better luck at home, Zola moved to his home island of Sardinia to manage Cagliari. Unable to prevent relegation, he was sacked after just 10 games in charge. Zola then set his eyes on the middle east. Taking on the role of head coach of Al Arabi in Qatar, Zola managed just 10 wins and 11 losses and was subsequently dismissed in June.
He is now set to return to the Premier League though. With only 2 weeks left until the commencement of the new Premier League campaign, Zola will have his hands full if he lands the job.
Hull kick off their campaign on the 13th of August against defending champions Leicester at the KCOM stadium.
For the complete list of fixtures, click here.
