Blackburn Rovers are continuing their search for a permanent replacement for Valérien Ismaël as they prepare to face Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road.
Following Ismaël’s departure, interim manager Damien Johnson recorded a narrow 1-0 win over Sheffield Wednesday before suffering a 2-0 defeat to Norwich City. These mixed results have left Rovers in 22nd place, inside the relegation zone on goal difference.
With survival at stake, the club must make the right managerial appointment in the coming weeks.
Blackburn’s Relegation Battle in the Championship
Blackburn’s current league position reflects a difficult campaign marked by inconsistency, defensive errors, and lack of attacking cohesion.
Sitting just above the bottom three, Rovers urgently need stability and leadership. A strong managerial appointment could be the difference between survival and relegation to League One.
Reports suggest that Blackburn are set to hold talks with experienced Championship coach Gary Rowett, but his recent record raises serious concerns.
Why Gary Rowett May Not Be the Right Choice
Gary Rowett is one of the most experienced managers in the Championship, having coached Birmingham City, Derby County, Millwall, Stoke City, and Oxford United.
Across more than 400 second-tier matches, he has developed a reputation as a steady, pragmatic coach. However, recent seasons suggest that his approach may no longer deliver results.
Rowett’s last two jobs ended with teams near the relegation zone:
- Birmingham City: 22nd (2023/24)
- Oxford United: 21st (2025/26)
During his final spell at Oxford, he recorded just one win in ten matches before being dismissed.
His points-per-game average in the current Championship season stands at just 0.96, highlighting Blackburn’s risk in appointing him.
Limited Long-Term Potential Under Rowett
Beyond short-term survival, Blackburn must consider their long-term ambitions.
Rowett has never managed in the Premier League and has achieved only one play-off finish in 12 Championship seasons. His teams are often organised defensively but lack attacking identity and progression.
Appointing Rowett may help stabilise results temporarily, but it offers little guarantee of long-term growth.
For a club with strong academy traditions and promotion aspirations, this represents a significant limitation.
Why Ralph Hasenhuttl Is a More Ambitious Option
Instead of settling for familiarity, Blackburn should consider a more ambitious appointment Ralph Hasenhuttl.
The former Southampton, RB Leipzig, and Wolfsburg manager has experience at the highest level of European football and is currently available.
Hasenhuttl has been out of work since leaving Wolfsburg in 2024 and may be motivated to return to management in England.
His managerial résumé includes:
- Premier League: 151 games (1.17 PPG)
- Bundesliga: 142 games (1.49 PPG)
- Bundesliga: Title winner (2014/15)
He also guided Ingolstadt to promotion and later secured a respectable 11th-place Bundesliga finish.
Hasenhuttl’s Proven Ability in Relegation Battles
One of Hasenhuttl’s strongest qualities is his experience in survival fights.
At Southampton, he kept the club in the Premier League for four consecutive seasons despite limited budgets and constant pressure.
His high-intensity pressing system, tactical flexibility, and focus on youth development would suit Blackburn’s current squad.
Former Southampton captain James Ward-Prowse once described him as “unbelievable,” highlighting his influence on player development and mentality.
Tactical Fit for Blackburn Rovers
Hasenhuttl typically favours aggressive 4-3-3 and 4-2-2-2 systems built on pressing and quick transitions.
This approach could revitalise Blackburn’s attack and improve their defensive structure — two major weaknesses this season.
Under his leadership, young players often thrive, which aligns well with Blackburn’s recruitment and academy model.
Compared to Rowett’s cautious style, Hasenhuttl offers a more modern and proactive philosophy.
Blackburn Must Think Bigger
With relegation looming, Blackburn cannot afford another short-term gamble.
Gary Rowett brings experience, but his recent struggles and limited progression suggest he may not be the right solution.
Ralph Hasenhuttl, on the other hand, offers top-level experience, proven survival credentials, and long-term potential.
If Rovers are serious about rebuilding and securing their Championship status, they should make a bold move for the Austrian coach.
Norwich’s successful appointment of Philippe Clement shows that ambition can pay off. Now, Blackburn must follow suit.
Thiago Nuno is a football editor and analyst covering European leagues, match statistics, and transfer market trends.
