As Claudio Ranieri prepares to step down as Roma manager at the end of the current season, speculation is mounting about potential successors to lead the club in 2025-26. The 73-year-old Italian returned for his third stint at the Stadio Olimpico in November, replacing the dismissed Ivan Juric. Roma has indicated that Ranieri will have input in choosing the next manager.

This transition comes at a crucial juncture for Roma as they aim to build on recent progress and compete at the highest levels. Several high-profile names have been linked with the soon-to-be-vacant position.

Leading Candidates

According to recent reports, the frontrunners include:

• Maurizio Sarri
• Carlo Ancelotti
• Gian Piero Gasperini
• Patrick Vieira
• Erik ten Hag

Sarri and Ancelotti both have extensive experience managing top Italian clubs. Gasperini has achieved remarkable success with Atalanta, though Ranieri recently downplayed his chances. Vieira has impressed at Genoa this season, while ten Hag is available after leaving Manchester United.

Ranieri’s Role in the Search

With 40 years of managerial experience, Ranieri is working alongside sporting director Florent Ghisolfi to identify suitable candidates. The veteran coach emphasized that Roma needs a long-term solution, stating: “If I stayed as coach, we would lose a year. I am not the future of Roma. Whoever comes must be the future of Roma.”

Club’s Vision and Constraints

Roma aims to compete for top honors while working within financial constraints. Ranieri noted: “Roma wants to get to the top and we know that for the next two markets we cannot spend excessively. Whoever comes must understand these limitations.”

As one of Italy’s most storied clubs, Roma remains an attractive destination for top managers. Supporters will expect the new appointment to have a proven track record or demonstrate the potential to elevate the club to new heights.