Frank Lampard is set to make a dramatic return to Stamford Bridge as caretaker manager until the end of the season. The Chelsea legend, who was sacked as head coach in January 2021, will take over from Graham Potter, who was dismissed just 48 hours before Lampard’s appointment.
Lampard, Chelsea’s all-time leading goal scorer, is expected to take training on Thursday afternoon and lead the team in their next game against Wolves on Saturday. The former midfielder’s return to the club has been warmly welcomed by fans, which still hold him in high regard for his achievements as a player.
The appointment of Lampard as caretaker boss comes amid ongoing talks with Luis Enrique over the club’s managerial vacancy. Chelsea is said to be assessed by up to seven candidates for the job, including Mauricio Pochettino, Ruben Amorim, Oliver Glasner, and Luciano Spalletti. However, former Chelsea boss Antonio Conte is not believed to be a candidate, while Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi needs to be added to the list.
Although their strong interest in Enrique and Nagelsmann, Lampard’s appointment as caretaker manager suggests that the club is still being prepared to make a permanent appointment. Lampard’s return to Stamford Bridge signifies the club’s desperation for stability and familiarity during a tumultuous season.
Chelsea started the season strongly under Thomas Tuchel, who was appointed in January as Lampard’s replacement. The German coach led the team to the Champions League final and secured a top-four finish in the Premier League. However, Chelsea’s form has dipped recently, and they have failed to score in their last two games.
Chelsea is determined to win trophies and compete at the highest level, and they will not tolerate anything less. Lampard’s return to the club is a gamble, but it is one that the club is willing to take. The former midfielder is a club legend, and he understands the values and culture of the club better than anyone. He has proven his managerial ability in the past and hopes to make a strong case for a permanent appointment. However, Lampard’s tenure as head coach had its challenges.
He struggled to get the best out of some of the club’s big-money signings, and his team’s defensive frailties were often exposed. Lampard will need to address these issues if he is to make a success of his second stint at the club.
Lampard’s appointment as caretaker manager until the end of the season is a bold move by Chelsea. The club is taking a calculated risk by entrusting Lampard with the task of steadying the ship, but it is a risk that they feel is worth taking. Lampard’s return to Stamford Bridge is sure to generate excitement and optimism among fans, but ultimately, his success will be determined by his ability to win games and trophies.