Southampton are hoping to appoint Will Still as their new manager in time for their game against Arsenal this weekend, according to a report.
LONDON, ENGLAND: Kai Havertz of Arsenal scores his team's first goal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Southampton FC at Emirates Stadium on October 05, 2024. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images
Ben Fisher reports for The Guardian that Southampton are accelerating their plans to appoint Will Still as their new head coach, and if they make sufficient progress over the next couple of days they’ll appoint him before Sunday’s match against Arsenal.
Still left RC Lens last week for personal reasons, wanting to be closer to his family in England, but the French club are yet to agree compensation for his staff.
Southampton had considered Danny Rohl and Tom Cleverley in their hunt for a new manager, but it seems Still is now the favourite.
LONDON, ENGLAND: Bukayo Saka of Arsenal scores his team's third goal past Aaron Ramsdale of Southampton during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Southampton FC at Emirates Stadium on October 05, 2024. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images
Even if Southampton appoint Still in time, there’s little suggestion that he’ll actually take charge of the match against Arsenal. The Guardian write that he’ll be in the stands for the game.
But whether he’s coaching the side or not, the players will presumably want to impress their new boss if he’s there watching on.
LONDON, ENGLAND: Bukayo Saka of Arsenal controls the ball during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Southampton FC at Emirates Stadium on October 05, 2024. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images
The good news from an Arsenal point of view is that the season is already pretty much wrapped up. Champions League football is secured, and only Manchester City are capable of overtaking the Gunners on the final day.
That would require a City win away to Fulham, an Arsenal defeat to Southampton, and an eight-goal swing in goal difference between the two matches. It’s not impossible, but it’s extremely unlikely.
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