Exclusive: This is who Middlesbrough fans want to replace Aitor Karanka
It has been a disappointing season for Middlesbrough.
Having won promotion back to the Premier League, Aitor Karanka’s side looked a relatively safe bet to remain in the top flight this season, but over the last few months, it has all fallen apart.
Without a win in 10 Premier League games, a change was certainly needed at the top at the Riverside Stadium, and unfortunately for Karanka that meant a departure was inevitable.
Indeed, thoughts must quickly turn to who will succeed the ex-Real Madrid assistant, with just 11 weeks left to save Middlesbrough’s season.
We asked fans of the club who they would want to take up the mantle, and the results were certainly interesting. Here’s a rundown of the top three.
3. Harry Redknapp
Coming in third place was Harry Redknapp, who has been out of management in England since leaving QPR in 2015.
Whilst his recent spells haven’t quite gone to plan, Redknapp clearly knows his way around a football team, and with Middlesbrough’s side lacking a bit of firepower he might be the man to rebuild the club this summer.
His tenure is unlikely to be a long-term one – his roles as manager rarely are – but he would certainly be able to come in and make an impact.
2. Nigel Pearson
Surprisingly, Nigel Pearson came in second place – despite his recent poor tenure in charge of Derby County.
Nonetheless, it seems likely that Boro fans are attracted to the passion and commitment that Pearson exudes and places upon his players.
Middlesbrough are in a poor spot at present, and whilst he has struggled to hold down a job long-term, he could be the perfect man to come in and get Boro out of trouble.
1. Claudio Ranieri
The runaway favourite for the role from the perspective of the Middlesbrough fans is Claudio Ranieri. The Italian was, of course, sacked by Leicester City earlier this season – but the mark that he has left in the Premier League will never go away.
He managed to lead Leicester away from the drop zone and into a Premier League title chase, with the Foxes worthy winners of the competition last season.
Ranieri would be available and might like another chance at the Premier League after his last job ended so poorly, and there is no doubting the experience that he would bring.
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