Next Wales manager: Five potential Rob Page replacements

The FAW are currently in the process of searching for the replacement of Rob Page who was dismissed as manager of Wales men’s first team following disappointing friendly results to Gibraltar and Slovakia, alongside failure to qualify for EURO 2024.

Page saw his three-and-a-half-year reign come to an end having guided the nation in their Euro 2020 campaign, before overseeing the nation qualify for the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 58 years as they competed in the 2022 Qatar World Cup.

Despite his previous success, a penalty shootout loss to Poland in the play-off final coupled with recent poor performances saw a disgruntled support make their feelings known on his future, with the FAW also deciding it was time for a new man at the helm.

The association have recently revealed the key characteristics they are searching for in their new man, with them looking to have a new face in the dugout for the upcoming Nations League fixtures against Türkiye, Montenegro and Iceland.

Speaking on their search for a new manager the FAW statement read: “The FAW aim to attract the very best candidate to succeed in this role and achieve the required objectives. The FAW are looking for a coach with a proven track record of delivering success at club and/or international level.”

Here is a look at potential options the FAW could choose for the next Wales men’s team manager.

Osian Roberts

One name being discussed with the vacant managerial role is former Wales assistant manager Osian Roberts.

Roberts, who was a major part of the nation’s success at Euro 2016 before leaving his role in 2017 after the resignation of Chris Coleman, expressed his interest in becoming the new manager before the appointment of Ryan Giggs.

The 58-year-old has since become manager of Italian side Como 1907 where he guided them back to Serie A for the first time in 21 years.

The Anglesey-born coach has previously stated his interest in the role, however, it could be difficult for the FAW to prize him away from his current job.

Craig Bellamy

Former Welsh international Craig Bellamy is another in contention with the vacant managerial position.

His latest role has seen him as the assistant manager to Vincent Kompany at Burnley, but with the Belgians move to Bayern Munich, Bellamy’s future at The Clarets is now unsure and could give the FAW an opportunity to fill their managerial vacancy.

Bellamy is also heavily in contention to replace Kompany in the managerial role at The Championship club, with them being one of the early favourites for promotion following relegation from The Premier League last term.

Ryan Giggs

Another option for the FAW is the reappointment of former manager Ryan Giggs.

The former Welsh international and Manchester United legend stepped down from his role as manager in June 2022 before being replaced by Rob Page.

Giggs has previously expressed his interest to return to management with links to League Two side Salford City, who he co-owns.

Despite his openness to return to management, it is unlikely that the FAW will look to bring him back for a second spell.

Thierry Henry

Former France international Thierry Henry is also in contention to replace Page as Wales boss.

Henry completed his coaching badges with the FAW where he worked closely with Osian Roberts who oversaw the course.

Since completing the course the 46-year-old has held roles as assistant manager of Belgium as well as the head role at Monaco and Montreal Impact.

He is now set to lead the French Olympic squad next month aiming for a gold medal in their home competition. The FAW could look to hire Henry following the Olympics which ends in August before the beginning of the Nations League campaign.

Sam Allardyce

Former England manager Sam Allardyce has thrown his name into the mix for the vacant position, stating his interest in the role.

Speaking on his ‘No Tippy Tap Football’ podcast Allardyce said: “I’d always take an interview, I wouldn’t turn an interview down, you’ve got a team that’s done brilliantly over the last few years but who are the next generation, where’s the next Gareth Bale, teams like that always have to have one special player.”

The 69-year-old last had a four-game managerial spell with Leeds United in 2023 and could be a potential option for the FAW.

Who do you think should be the next Wales manager? let us know in the comment section below.