Swansea's Managerial Search Takes a New Direction
Swansea City have been forced to reconsider their options in the hunt for a new head coach after primary target Kim Hellberg performed a dramatic U-turn. The Swedish coach, who had been heavily linked with the Swansea job, is now expected to take the helm at fellow Championship side Middlesbrough.
Vitor Matos: The Liverpool Connection
With the deal for Hellberg collapsing, attention at the Swansea.com Stadium has shifted to a coach with a prestigious Anfield pedigree. According to a BBC Sport report confirmed on Monday evening, Vitor Matos has emerged as a serious contender for the vacancy.
The 37-year-old Portuguese coach is no stranger to English football, having spent five formative years at Liverpool between 2019 and 2024. During his tenure, Matos served as an elite development coach under the legendary Jürgen Klopp, playing a role in the club's period of sustained success.
Matos is currently cutting his teeth in his first head coach role with Portuguese second-tier side Maritimo. He signed a two-year contract with the club in June and has made a strong impression, guiding them to third place in the Liga Portugal 2.
Vacancy Created After Sheehan Departure
The search for a new boss was triggered last week when Swansea decided to part ways with Alan Sheehan. The 39-year-old Irishman's permanent reign lasted just six months before a poor start to the 2025-26 Championship campaign cost him his job.
Under Sheehan, the Swans managed only four wins in 15 league games, a record that prompted the club's hierarchy to act. The decision leaves Swansea seeking a leader capable of revitalising their season and climbing the Championship table.
Meanwhile, another Championship managerial vacancy was filled on Tuesday morning as Norwich City confirmed the appointment of Philippe Clement as their new head coach. The former Rangers boss, who has been unattached since February, inherits a Canaries side sitting second from bottom in the league following a disastrous start under the sacked Liam Manning.
Speaking to Norwich's official website, Clement outlined his ambition, stating: "I've known of this club for a long time and, whilst we are not in a good moment at this time, we are excited to work together with the players and staff to turn things around." He added that meeting with the owners and hearing their ambitions convinced him it was the right move.
