Hiddink 15/8 for Chelsea job after admitting interest
Published:Guus Hiddink’s admission over the weekend that he would definitely consider any genuine approach made by Chelsea for his services has seen the Dutch veteran restored as the 15/8 favourite to be their next manager.
The Ladbrokes market as to who will succeed double winner Carlo Ancelotti at Stamford Bridge makes for captivating viewing with three almost inseparable contenders at the top, as Pep Guardiola and Harry Redknapp are both 2/1.
Hiddink was an early frontrunner due to his successful spell as interim boss and relationship with Roman Abramovich from his time as Russia coach, but there were doubts over whether he would ditch his current employers Turkey.
However, he has said: “If there was a concrete offer, then I would think about it. You cannot go into all kind of speculation or rumours because there’s nothing concrete. The moment things are concrete, I’ll go to where I have to be, direct.”
The News of the World meanwhile speculate that Abramovich’s plan B if Hiddink rejects the opportunity to return to west London is to move for his compatriot Louis van Gaal, who was most recently in charge of Bayern Munich.
The meticulous tactician has won the Champions League with Ajax and that’s a persuasive feat when the Russian’s oligarch appoints a new manager, with three of the five men that he has hired in the past having claimed the trophy.
Van Gaal’s attention to detail and stubbornness have caused conflicts with board members and players at former clubs though, which is perhaps the reason why he isn’t seen as a leading candidate on Ladbrokes, with odds of 40/1 available.
Think Hiddink is a worthy favourite? A £30 stake on the Dutchman returning to the Blues would provide a profit of £56.25. New customers can sign up here for a free £30 bet.
