Leading Contender Emerges In QPR Manager Search

Queens Park Rangers have identified Randers FC boss Rasmus Bertelsen as a leading candidate in their search for a new manager.

The 41-year-old Dane is under contract until 2028, but the Championship club are reportedly willing to open talks for his services.

QPR Eye Ambitious Move for Danish Coach

Following Martí Cifuentes’ recent removal from first-team duties amid tensions over his flirtation with West Bromwich Albion, QPR have turned their attention to Scandinavia. Danish outlet Bold first revealed their interest in Bertelsen, and that claim has since been supported by further reports in Tipsbladet.

While Bertelsen himself has declined to confirm any approach, Randers sporting director Søren Pedersen has acknowledged the speculation and appeared open to negotiations—if a serious offer materialises.

“I think it’s positive, but I also know, because I’m in close dialogue with Rasmus, that he’s happy to be here and we’re happy for him,” Pedersen said. “He’s a big part of the very ambitious and exciting project we have going on.”

Pedersen confirmed no formal offer has yet landed but made it clear that a deal isn’t off the table:

“There hasn’t been anything on my desk in any case. But just like our players, there’s a price to pay if you need to bring in our talented employees, and that also applies to a coach.”

Bertelsen Career So Far

Bertelsen has been with Randers since 2009, initially working as head of academy coaching before stepping up to take charge of the senior team in March 2023. Since then, he has overseen close to 100 matches, helping to implement an attractive, progressive style of play that has drawn admirers both domestically and abroad. Last season, he was subject of interest from Wycombe Wanderers, but that never materialised.

QPR’s interest comes at a crucial moment for the club. Following a turbulent 2024/25 campaign that saw them narrowly avoid relegation, the West London side are aiming to steady the ship and appoint a head coach aligned with a longer-term vision. Bertelsen’s experience in building from within and promoting youth fits that remit.

Tipsbladet adds that while Bertelsen does not have a release clause in his contract, Randers would be willing to listen if “something extraordinary” is placed on the table. The Dane is considered an integral part of the club’s wider project, but Pedersen’s comments hint at a willingness to find a resolution should QPR make their interest official.

Writer’s View

Rasmus Bertelsen would be a fascinating appointment for Queens Park Rangers. While not a household name in English football, his credentials at Randers mark him out as a modern, data-savvy coach who has risen through the ranks on merit. He’s used to operating within clear club structures and promoting youth, which suits QPR’s current financial reality.

It’s telling that Randers haven’t shut the door on a move—this could accelerate quickly if QPR are serious. After the disruption surrounding Martí Cifuentes, appointing a coach with long-term vision and limited baggage could be exactly what’s needed.

Gary Hutchinson is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of The Real EFL, which he launched in 2018 to offer dedicated coverage of the English Football League. A writer for over 20 years, Gary has contributed to Sky Sports and the Lincolnshire Echo, while also authoring Suited and Booted. He also runs The Stacey West and possesses a background in iGaming content strategy and English football betting. Passionate about football journalism, Gary continues to develop The Real EFL into a key authority in the EFL space.

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