The international break has arrived, and while Anthony Barry might disapprove of the term, the football world finds itself in that familiar lull between club competitions. With actual matches thin on the ground, attention turns to the increasingly frantic managerial merry-go-round spinning at several clubs across Britain.
Wolves and the Championship shuffle
At Wolverhampton Wanderers, all signs point to Rob Edwards taking the helm in what represents a modest step up from his current position at Middlesbrough, who currently sit second in the Championship. Interestingly, our projections suggest Edwards' Wolves might find themselves in that exact same position this time next year.
As for Middlesbrough, with Gareth Southgate and Steve McClaren apparently unavailable, the prediction machine foresees a nostalgic appointment. Bryan Robson appears poised for an interim return, potentially even reviving his iconic suit-and-shorts combination for the unveiling ceremony. We're forecasting a seventh-place finish for Boro under this temporary leadership.
Celtic's eclectic shortlist
North of the border, Celtic's search for a new manager has produced a particularly diverse shortlist. Bodø/Glimt's tactical mastermind Kjetil Knutsen, Columbus Crew's Wilfried Nancy, and former player Craig Bellamy all feature as candidates.
However, our analysis suggests the permanent position will ultimately go to Martin O'Neill, who has already delivered plenty of memorable soundbites, sported retro training wear, and displayed impressive press conference zoning-out abilities. With O'Neill at the helm, we're boldly predicting Celtic will secure silverware this season.
Southampton's risky direction
Southampton present another intriguing case. Despite two victories under interim manager Tonda Eckert, the Saints continue to be linked with former failures Russell Martin and Ivan Juric, both of whom have struggled in high-profile roles since departing St Mary's.
Our trusted forecasting model suggests Southampton will instead opt for a different approach, appointing Portsmouth legend Gary O'Neil. This move would likely see the new manager quickly pursued down the M27 by furious supporters unhappy with the controversial appointment.
Other managerial movements
Brendan Rodgers appears on nearly every shortlist circulating but might fancy a return to Swansea, where Alan Sheehan has recently been shown the door. A failed playoff push and board investment complaints likely await whoever takes that position.
Meanwhile, Ivan Pereira's appreciation for pilsner and history of rescuing struggling teams makes him an ideal candidate for Bundesliga strugglers Wolfsburg.
Russell Martin, having crashed out of previous roles, might find solace at Norwich City, where he made nearly 300 appearances as a player. The nearby Norfolk Broads offer ample opportunities for team-building exercises that could prove more inspiring than halftime talks from Delia Smith.
The prediction machine, once activated, proved difficult to shut down, offering one final glimpse into Plymouth Argyle's future. After the Wayne Rooney saga, Argyle turned to Tom Cleverley this summer, with the former Manchester United midfielder leading them to the bottom of League One. With Cleverley's time running out and Derek Adams back as director of football, we foresee a third ex-United player coming to the rescue—likely Phil Neville, who will probably be available soon and certainly looks the part in dark green.
