John Eustace Takes the Reins: The Next Derby County Manager Odds, the Competition & Odds He Defied
It’s a new dawn at Pride Park, and the man holding the whistle is one who knows the pitch all too well. John Eustace, once a commanding presence in Derby County’s midfield, has returned — not to lace up his boots, but to orchestrate a revival from the touchline. Appointed amidst turbulence and mounting pressure in early 2025, Eustace edged out a lineup of high-profile contenders to take the manager’s role, a move that stunned bookmakers and fans alike.
While many expected a marquee name to headline Derby’s next chapter, it was Eustace’s quiet resolve, Championship pedigree, and personal ties to the club that tipped the scales. John Eustace’s appointment as Derby County manager was a significant move, considering the competition and the odds. His decision to leave a play-off-contending Blackburn side for Derby’s relegation battle highlighted his commitment to the club and belief in its future prospects.
But how close did others come to the hot seat — and what odds were they given?
Let’s rewind the speculation and unpack the drama behind one of English football’s most closely watched managerial races.
Derby County Next Manager Odds: Who Were The Contenders? | Next Derby County Manager Odds
Before John Eustace was unveiled as Derby County’s new manager, a host of high-profile names were tipped to take the reins. From ex-Premier League bosses to rising lower-league stars, here’s a look at the leading contenders and the odds they were given at various betting sites.
🏆 John Eustace – 1/2 Favourite
John Eustace emerged as the leading candidate to replace Paul Warne, with bookmakers even offering odds of 1/2 for his appointment. At the time, boss John Eustace was managing Blackburn Rovers, who were in the Championship play-off positions. His decision to leave Blackburn for Derby, a club battling relegation, was unexpected but driven by his personal connection to Derby, where he previously played, and a belief in the club’s potential under new ownership.
⚽ Lee Carsley – Second Favourite @ 4/1
Lee Carsley, a former Derby player and England U21 manager, was a strong contender for the managerial role, with odds of 4/1. Carsley had recently served as interim manager for the England senior team and was considered for the Derby position due to his coaching credentials and ties to the club.
🔵 Steven Gerrard – 14/1
Steven Gerrard, who had recently left Al-Ettifaq, was linked to the career at Derby managerial position with odds of 14/1. His previous managerial experience at Rangers and Aston Villa made him a notable candidate, although he was also being considered for other roles at the time.
🔴 Richie Wellens – 12/1
Former Leyton Orient boss Richie Wellens was priced at 12/1 for the Derby job. His impressive performance with Orient, saving them from the relegation zone, including a strong FA Cup showing against Manchester City, brought him into consideration for the role.
🟡 Ryan Lowe – 8/1
Ryan Lowe, managing Preston North End at the time, was considered a potential candidate for the Derby managerial position, with odds of 8/1. His experience in the Championship made him a viable option.
⚪ Ian Evatt – 12/1
Ian Evatt, then managing Bolton Wanderers, was linked to the careet at Derby with odds of 12/1. His managerial success with Bolton made him a candidate for the position.
🟢 Steve Cooper – 14/1
Steve Cooper, known for his work with Swansea City and Nottingham Forest, was considered for the Derby managerial role with odds of 14/1. His experience in the Championship and Premier League added to his candidacy.
🟣 Rob Edwards – 16/1
Rob Edwards, who had recently parted ways with Luton Town, was priced at 16/1 for the Derby job. His previous success in leading Luton to promotion to the Premier League made him a noteworthy candidate.
⚫ Sean Dyche – 20/1
Sean Dyche, known for his long tenure at Burnley, was linked to the Derby managerial position with odds of 20/1. His Premier League experience made him a potential candidate for the role.
🟠 Gary O’Neil – 20/1
Gary O’Neil, who had managed Bournemouth and Wolverhampton Wanderers, was considered for the Derby job with odds of 20/1. His recent managerial experience in the Premier League added to his profile.
