Former Chelsea and England captain John Terry is reportedly a serious candidate to take on his first senior managerial role, with Oxford United considering an approach for the 45-year-old.
From Academy Coach to First-Team Contender
Terry, who had seemingly stepped back from pursuing a permanent managerial position, has been working in a part-time capacity with Chelsea's academy. In an interview with The Sun in August 2025, he stated: "I’m done in terms of coaching. I’m enjoying my life, I’m working in the Chelsea academy. My role’s a part-time role, I love working with the kids."
However, a new opportunity has emerged that could change his career path. Oxford United are searching for a new boss after parting ways with Gary Rowett, who departed with the club in the Championship relegation places. A vital Boxing Day victory over Southampton, secured by a last-minute winner from Stanley Mills, has since lifted them out of the bottom three.
A Chance to Revive Managerial Ambitions
According to reports, Terry is one of several names in the frame for the vacancy at the Kassam Stadium, with former Rangers manager Mick Beale also linked. This is not the first time Terry has been considered for the Oxford job; he was also a contender in 2023 when Liam Manning left for Bristol City, but lost out to Des Buckingham.
Buckingham successfully led Oxford to promotion but was sacked in December 2024 and now manages Saudi side Al Kholood. His successor, Rowett, lasted less than a year, reopening the door for a new appointment.
Terry's frustration at previously being overlooked for managerial posts is well-documented. He served as assistant coach to Dean Smith at Aston Villa and Leicester City, gaining promotion with Villa. Despite this experience, he revealed his applications for roles, including in League One, were rejected, often due to a perceived lack of direct managerial experience.
"I thought that would be enough to get me a job," Terry said. "I didn’t even get a sniff. I had interviews and it was just ‘you have no experience’. When I see some people managing today, it baffles me."
What a Move Would Mean for Oxford and Terry
For Oxford United, appointing a high-profile figure like John Terry would represent a significant statement of intent as they battle to secure their Championship status. His vast experience as a player and leader, coupled with his recent coaching education, could provide the catalyst needed for survival.
For Terry, it represents a long-awaited chance to step out of the shadows and prove his capabilities as a number one, reviving a managerial career he had once put on hold. The coming days will reveal if Oxford United are prepared to take the chance that others would not.
