Sunderland’s search for a head coach continues after Will Still withdrew from consideration.
Sunderland’s quest for a new head coach continues following the breakdown of discussions with long-standing contender Will Still. Still’s association with the Black Cats traces back to December last year, when he was eyed for the role shortly after Tony Mowbray’s departure.
However, despite initial talks, the 31-year-old is now poised to assume responsibilities at Ligue 1’s RC Lens, leaving Sunderland in need of an alternative. This development comes three and a half months after Sunderland parted ways with Michael Beale in February.
Among the potential replacements is Bayern Munich youth coach Rene Maric, who has garnered attention for his contributions to coaching development and philosophy. Maric’s track record includes leading Bayern’s under-19s team during the 2023/24 season, adding weight to his candidacy. With prior stints as an assistant coach at Borussia Monchengladbach, Borussia Dortmund, and Leeds, Maric brings a wealth of experience to the table.
Although Maric remains under consideration for the Sunderland role, recent reports indicate a potential shift in his career trajectory. Sky Sports disclosed Maric as one of several candidates for the position, alongside Still. However, sources from Sky in Germany suggest Maric is poised to join Vincent Kompany’s coaching staff at Bayern, following Kompany’s appointment as the club’s new manager.
While Kompany’s backroom lineup is yet to be finalized, indications suggest the addition of Belgian coach Floribert N’Galula from Burnley and Middlesbrough coach Aaron Danks to his Bavarian team. As Sunderland navigates its search for a new head coach, the landscape continues to evolve amidst ongoing developments in the managerial sphere.