Abramovich beliefs Deschamps has long-term strategy
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has identified France manager Didier Deschamps as a shock long-term managerial target.
The Blues are in search of a new full-term managerial appointment, following the sacking of Jose Mourinho last month, and the Russian oligarch believes Deschamps is the man who can bring a long-term strategy to Stamford Bridge.
Guus Hiddink is in his second spell as interim boss, but will not become the long-term appointment as Abramovich targets both Deschamps and Stoke City’s Mark Hughes – both former Blues players.
The France boss’s contract runs out after Euro 2016 and with Abramovich keen not appoint a quick-fix solution, Deschamps has a proven record viable for Chelsea in the long-term.
Marina Granovskaia and technical director Michael Emenalo are advising the Russian about who to appoint next, and the Frenchman is one they believe the 49-year-old should mull over.
A proven success
Deschamps played for one season with Chelsea, up until 2000, and his good English would allow him to settle in quickly and implement a long-term plan that would propel them back near the top of league and challenging for titles.
The 47-year-old won the Ligue 1 with AS Monaco during his first season in charge, while returning Juventus to Serie A during his first season at the club following the match-fixing scandal.
But Hughes, who has implemented a passing style of play at Stoke, is another strong contender for the job. Having been tracked by Chelsea, before he moved to Manchester City, Hughes had successful spells with Blackburn Rovers and Fulham.
