Yesterday’s 6-1 defeat at Peterborough, was finally enough to convince the board to show Ryan Lowe the door. A decision that as a fanbase we are all quite frankly delighted with.
As always the sacking draws many questions, and the main one being who could potentially succeed Ryan Lowe at Wigan?
Here at CCFootballVlogs we’ve made a shortlist of potential candidates, alternating between both preference & realism.
1. Leighton Baines
Currently David Moyes’s assistant at Everton, Baines was strongly linked to Wigan amid Shaun Maloney’s sacking 11 months ago. A former player, before his big move to Everton in 2007, and then going onto establish himself as one of this country’s best ever full backs, Baines’s profile perfectly fits what Wigan Athletic need long term. Despite, not having the most experience, abit of faith put in him by a lower level EFL side could be the making of him and really launch his managerial career. As of this moment, he would be my #1 choice.
2. Neil Critchley
Neil Critchley brings proven managerial experience at League One and Championship level, making him an appealing option if Wigan seek a safe and established appointment. Known for developing young players and implementing a clear style of play, Critchley would fit the club’s long-term model. However, competition from clubs at a higher level could prove an obstacle.
3. Steve Bruce
I feel this may be controversial BUT Steve Bruce did a very stellar job at Blackpool last season, a side that were in and around the playoffs, but of course following the problems this season he was dismissed. I would not suggest Bruce as a permanent manager, but as an interim-boss until the end of the season, there’s little risk & he would be likely to guide to a comfortable finish.
4. Emmerson Boyce
Another figure with strong Wigan ties, Emmerson Boyce has been involved in coaching roles since retirement and understands the culture of the club. While he lacks extensive first-team managerial experience, his connection to Wigan and relatively low-risk profile could appeal if the club prioritises continuity and internal progression.
5. Charlie Adam
Charlie Adam, feels like a very Wigan appointment, and after a not so grand spell at Fleetwood, he currently finds himself as Set-piece coach at Premier League outfit Everton. I wouldn’t go with Adam right now, as the risk does feel high but one day in the future I imagine he will return to the EFL.
6. Ryan Mason
Ryan Mason is regarded as one of the most promising young coaches in English football, having gained valuable experience at Tottenham Hotspur. While his coaching pedigree is strong, Wigan may represent a step into a volatile situation that Mason could prefer to avoid at this stage of his career. A move feels possible, but unlikely.
7. Tony Mowbray
Tony Mowbray’s experience and track record make him an attractive name on paper, particularly given his previous success in rebuilding clubs. However, concerns around wages, expectations, and long-term alignment with Wigan’s current direction make an appointment less probable, despite his clear managerial pedigree.
8. Gary Rowett
Gary Rowett has consistently operated at Championship level and would bring instant experience and organisation. That said, his recent roles suggest he may be targeting clubs with greater resources and higher ambitions than Wigan can currently offer, making a move to the Brick Community Stadium unlikely.
9. Wayne Rooney
Despite his global profile, Wayne Rooney’s recent managerial spells have produced mixed results, and his appointment would bring significant attention and pressure. Combined with financial concerns and questions over suitability, a move to Wigan appears the least realistic of all candidates. However, you never do know with football.
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