Blackburn Rovers are reportedly set to appoint Valerien Ismael as their new manager this week, following John Eustace’s recent departure to Derby County.
The Ewood Park club has been searching for a new boss since Eustace’s exit, with interviews conducted both via video calls and in person. Reports suggest Ismael has emerged as the frontrunner for the role.
Journalist Alan Nixon claims that a three-year contract is on the table for the Frenchman, who has been without a club since leaving Watford in March 2024.
“Rovers are in advanced talks with Valerien Ismael, with a long-term deal expected to be finalised soon.”
Ismael’s Championship Experience
The 49-year-old has significant Championship experience, having previously managed Barnsley and West Brom. He notably guided Barnsley to the play-offs in the 2020/21 season, exceeding expectations with a young squad.
His subsequent spells at West Brom and Watford, however, were less successful. At The Hawthorns, he won 12 of 31 matches before being dismissed, while his tenure at Watford lasted 41 games, yielding 12 victories.
Beyond the English game, Ismael has managed clubs such as FC Nurnberg, Wolfsburg, Apollon Smyrnis, LASK, and Besiktas.
What It Means for Blackburn Rovers
Should the deal be completed, Ismael will take charge of a Rovers side currently sitting sixth in the Championship, well within the play-off mix. Blackburn have played both of their league fixtures against Preston North End this season, drawing 0-0 at Deepdale before winning 2-1 at Ewood Park.
More Managerial Changes in the Championship
Blackburn are not the only Championship club making managerial changes. Swansea City are also in the market for a new boss after parting ways with Luke Williams earlier this month.
Names such as Eric Ramsay and Des Buckingham have been linked with the role, but interim head coach Alan Sheehan is now the bookmakers’ favourite to land the job permanently. His first game in charge saw Swansea earn an impressive 3-0 victory over Blackburn.
Writer’s View
Valerien Ismael’s appointment could be a bold move for Blackburn Rovers, given his mixed managerial record in England. His high-intensity style of play worked wonders at Barnsley but struggled at West Brom and Watford. However, with Rovers already in the play-off mix, Ismael will have the platform to make an immediate impact.
Blackburn fans will hope that he can rekindle the success he found at Oakwell and lead the club to promotion contention in the final stretch of the season.
