Chris Wilder returns to Sheffield United for his third managerial stint, replacing Ruben Selles after a string of defeats. Wilder, previously sacked months earlier, aims to revitalize the struggling Championship team. His deep-rooted connection with the club and long-term contract signal a strong commitment to turning their season around.
Chris Wilder has made a sensational return to Sheffield United, marking his third stint as manager of the club. This unexpected move comes just three months after he was dismissed to pave the way for Ruben Selles. The decision to re-appoint Wilder underscores the club's ambition to course-correct following a disastrous run of form.
The dismissal of Selles on Sunday was triggered by the Blades' humiliating 5-0 defeat at the hands of Ipswich. This latest setback left Sheffield United languishing at the bottom of the Championship table without a single point to their name. The club's American owners, COH Sports, acted swiftly to bring back a familiar face in Wilder, who turns 58 next Tuesday. Wilder's previous departure came after a loss to Sunderland in the Championship play-off at Wembley.
COH Sports have shown their faith in Wilder by offering him a contract that extends until 2027. This long-term commitment reflects the ownership's belief in Wilder's ability to steer the club back on track after Selles' woeful tenure, which saw the former Southampton, Reading, and Hull boss lose all six matches he oversaw.
Wilder's history with Sheffield United is deeply rooted. A boyhood supporter of the Blades, his professional association with the club began nearly four decades ago in 1986 when he joined as a player. As a defender, Wilder spent six years at Bramall Lane before moving to Rotherham. He later returned for a brief period in 1998, further cementing his connection with the club.
Before his initial managerial appointment at United, Wilder achieved promotion success with Oxford and Northampton. His first spell as United boss began in 2016, and he immediately guided them to the League One title in his debut season. The momentum continued as the Blades secured the Championship runners-up spot in 2019, marking their return to the Premier League for the first time since 2007 under Neil Warnock.
Sheffield United exceeded expectations in their first season back in the top flight, recording memorable victories against Everton, Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, and Chelsea. This impressive run led to a ninth-place finish, their highest placing since 1975.
However, the following season saw a significant downturn in form, and Wilder departed in March 2021 with the club at the bottom of the Premier League. Before his latest return to Bramall Lane in December 2023, where he succeeded Paul Heckingbottom with the club once again at the foot of the Premier League table, Wilder also had stints at Middlesbrough and Watford.
Despite being unable to prevent relegation, Wilder managed to amass 90 points last season, finishing third before enduring the heartbreak of a 90th-minute defeat to Sunderland. Rob Staton of BBC Radio Sheffield described Wilder's return as sensational, noting that his initial departure was controversial given the 92 points recorded last season and the team's Championship play-off final appearance.
Staton highlighted the stark contrast between the team's performance under Wilder and Selles, pointing out that key players like Harrison Burrows, Michael Cooper, and Sydie Pieck appeared to be shadows of their former selves. The decision to bench Gus Hamer, last year's top player in the Championship, during the 5-0 defeat to Ipswich, further underscored the team's struggles. Tyrese Campbell, another instrumental figure from the previous season, also found himself on the sidelines.
The owners' decision to re-appoint Wilder appears to be an admission of their previous misjudgment, demonstrating a level of humility rarely seen in football. Wilder's deep affection for Sheffield United and his intimate knowledge of the club make him well-suited to quickly turn things around.
With plenty of time remaining in the season, Wilder has a significant opportunity to rescue the Blades and guide them up the table. The circumstances surrounding his return make this a remarkable story, one that could become even more extraordinary if he succeeds in transforming the club's fortunes.
More to follow.