| Manager Name | Odds | Bookmaker |
|---|---|---|
| Rob Edwards | 1/2 | MyriadPlay |
| Richie Wellens | 3 | MyriadPlay |
| Luke Williams | 4 | MyriadPlay |
| Ruben Selles | 12 | MyriadPlay |
Odds subject to change. Please gamble responsibly. 18+ BeGambleAware.org.
The managerial hot seat at Bristol City is once again the talk of the Championship after the Liam Mannig moved to Norwich City.
Aiming to break into the promotion mix, the Robins endured a frustrating play-off defeat, but ideally would have retained Liam Mannig, who performed above expectations. With fear rising among fans and the board alike, speculation is intensifying over who will be tasked with leading the next chapter at Ashton Gate.
Rob Edwards currently leads the betting markets, but with other strong contenders like Richie Wellens and Luke Williams also in the frame, the situation remains fluid. As always in these scenarios, the odds shift quickly—interviews, leaks, and sudden media reports often spark major changes in the market.
Bristol City don’t have a reputation for chopping and changing managers, having appointed few different head coaches over the past decade in search of sustained Championship success. That stable history only fuels betting interest, as punters try to read between the lines and get ahead of the next announcement.
With the market moving fast, all eyes remain fixed on Ashton Gate.
Who Will Be the Bristol City Manager?
As speculation swirls around Ashton Gate, several leading names have emerged as strong contenders. The following profiles highlight the key candidates tipped to take the reins at Bristol City.
Rob Edwards (Top Candidate)
Currently in charge at Luton Town, Rob Edwards has impressed with his ability to adapt quickly and inspire his squads. After guiding Forest Green Rovers to the League Two title, he had a short stint at Watford before moving to Luton, where he achieved Premier League promotion. His Championship experience and track record of quick turnarounds make him a compelling choice.
Edwards is known for his tactically flexible style and strong defensive organisation, often favouring compact teams with quick transitional play. That setup could suit Bristol City’s current squad profile and their need for resilience.
His odds have recently shortened to 1/2 with BetVictor, suggesting strong links behind the scenes. With his reputation on the rise, he’s seen as the frontrunner by bookmakers and fans alike.
Richie Wellens
Richie Wellens is currently at Leyton Orient, where he led the club to the League Two title in 2022–23, and League One play-offs this season. He also enjoyed a strong spell at Swindon Town, guiding them to promotion in the 2019–20 season. While he lacks Championship experience, his ability to build cohesive, attacking sides in the lower leagues has gained attention.
Wellens is admired for a high-tempo, possession-based game that relies on technical midfielders and overlapping full-backs—an approach that would align with Bristol City’s ambition to play attractive football.
With odds of 3/1, he’s a close second favourite. His rise in the betting suggests behind-the-scenes interest, though his lack of second-tier credentials may work against him if Bristol City opt for a more proven name.
Luke Williams
Formerly charge of Swansea City, Luke Williams earned plaudits for his time as Notts County boss, guiding them to a National League promotion with eye-catching, attacking football. Formerly assistant to Russell Martin, he was appointed Swansea manager in early 2024 and showed signs of building a clear tactical identity, before being fired.
Williams prioritises fluid build-up play, technical control, and positional rotations—an attractive philosophy for a side like Bristol City seeking a long-term vision. His coaching background could also help develop the Robins’ promising young players.
At 4/1 with BetVictor, his odds place him firmly in contention. He’s a free agent, something that makes him an attractive financial option for the Robins.
Ruben Selles
Ruben Selles is best known in England for his time at Southampton, where he took charge during a turbulent Premier League relegation battle. He achieved relative success with Reading in League One, keeping them up with a hefty points deduction, and then setting them on course for a play-off spot. A doomed spell with Hull has dented his stock; he was surprisingly fired a couple of weeks ago. Despite this, he remains respected for his tactical intelligence and composure under pressure.
Selles favours a methodical, structured style, often implementing a disciplined 4-2-3-1 setup. While not necessarily a headline name, he brings top-flight experience and a data-driven approach that could appeal to a modern-thinking boardroom.
His odds of 12/1 reflect outsider status, but with Bristol City’s unpredictable history in managerial hires, a left-field choice like Selles cannot be ruled out entirely.
How to Bet on the Bristol City Manager
Placing a bet on the next Bristol City manager is simple, but understanding the process ensures you get the best value and avoid common mistakes. Here’s a step-by-step guide.
- Find a Bookmaker: Choose a reputable football betting site that offers odds on the Bristol City manager market. Browse top football betting sites here.
- Locate the Market: Navigate through the site to find the next Bristol City manager betting options.
- Select Your Candidate: Choose the manager you believe is most likely to be appointed.
- Add to Bet Slip: Click on your selection to add it to your betting slip.
- Set Your Stake: Enter the amount you wish to wager.
- Confirm Your Bet: Finalise your bet and place it through the bookmaker.
- Monitor Updates: Keep track of odds changes and news to adjust your bets accordingly.
Bristol City Managerial History & Trends
Bristol City’s managerial record since 2000 reflects a club that strives for stability but is unafraid to make decisive changes when progress stalls. The most sustained recent tenure came under Lee Johnson, who led the club for over four years, steering them close to the play-offs and embedding a clear identity. Before and since, however, a series of short-term reigns have underlined the club’s willingness to adapt quickly to shifting performances and league pressures.
There’s a clear preference for managers with Championship or League One experience, often favouring coaches with strong player development credentials or a track record of building competitive, attacking teams. While some appointments—like Nigel Pearson—brought seasoned authority, others like Liam Manning represent the club’s more recent shift towards progressive, data-literate managers with long-term vision.
| Manager | Appointment Date | To | Days in Charge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liam Manning | 07/11/2023 | 04/06/2025 | 576 |
| Nigel Pearson | 24/02/2021 | 29/10/2023 | 978 |
| Dean Holden | 05/07/2020 | 24/02/2021 | 234 |
| Lee Johnson | 07/02/2016 | 05/07/2020 | 1,615 |
| Steve Cotterill | 03/12/2013 | 14/01/2016 | 772 |
| Sean O’Driscoll | 14/01/2013 | 28/11/2013 | 318 |
| Derek McInnes | 19/10/2011 | 13/01/2013 | 452 |
| Keith Millen | 12/08/2010 | 03/10/2011 | 417 |
| Steve Coppell | 11/05/2010 | 12/08/2010 | 93 |
| Gary Johnson | 26/09/2005 | 18/03/2010 | 1,634 |
| Brian Tinnion | 05/06/2004 | 11/09/2005 | 463 |
| Danny Wilson | 27/06/2000 | 05/06/2004 | 1,439 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who’s the favourite to be the next Bristol City manager?
As of the latest odds from BetVictor, Rob Edwards is the frontrunner at 1/2. His Championship experience and recent availability have made him a leading contender.
Who will be the next manager of Bristol City?
While no appointment has been confirmed, speculation suggests Rob Edwards, Richie Wellens, and Luke Williams are all in the frame. The decision will depend on interviews and club strategy.
Who would be the best manager for Bristol City?
That depends on the club’s long-term goals. Rob Edwards brings experience and top-level credentials, while Richie Wellens offers a fresh, attacking approach. Luke Williams also appeals to fans wanting a progressive style. However, outsider Ruben Selles was harshly treated by Hull City, and could be a really strong choice, given that Edwards and Williams have both been sacked by Championship clubs after much longer spells.
Who is the longest-serving manager at Bristol City?
Gary Johnson holds the record in the modern era, managing from September 2005 to March 2010—a tenure of 1,634 days. Bob Hewison is the longest-serving manager in Bristol City’s history, with 6,243 days in charge — that’s over 17 years, including the World War II suspension period.
Which Bristol City manager has the best record?
Statistically, Steve Cotterill is often cited for his achievements, including winning League One in 2014–15 and guiding the club to the EFL Trophy that same season. Joe Jordan enjoyed a successful first spell as Bristol City manager from 1988 to 1990, guiding them to the play-offs and then promotion. A former player, he posted a 50.75% win rate. The best win rate was achieved by Sam Hollis, who returned to Bristol City in 1901 and led them to Football League promotion in 1902. During this second spell, he won 69 of 133 matches, achieving a 51.88% win rate.
How often do Bristol City change their manager?
While not known for extreme turnover, Bristol City have appointed 12 different permanent managers since 2000, averaging a change roughly every two years.