(Credit:Imago/Getty Images)

Exclusive: Sheffield United plot sensational Chris Wilder return

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Published on:

13 Sep 2025, 4:51 am

Chris Wilder could make a sensational return as Sheffield United manager just three months after being sacked, sources have told Football Insider.

Ruben Selles is fighting for his job at Bramall Lane after a calamitous start to his reign continued with Friday night's 5-0 thrashing by Ipswich Town.

Wilder's second spell as Sheffield United manager ended with dismissal following May's Championship play-off final defeat to Sunderland.

Now, the most successful United manager of the modern era is emerging as a strong contender for what would be an extraordinary return, as well as an unexpected U-turn by the club's US owners.

They are ready to sound out Wilder about his interest in replacing Selles and embarking on a remarkable third spell in charge.

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder in black wet coat

Wilder could return as Sheffield United manager. (Credit: Getty Images)

Ruben Selles faces sack threat after nightmare start at Sheffield United

Selles is under mounting pressure after Sheffield United slumped to bottom place of the Championship, following their fifth straight defeat.

The Blades have scored just one goal this season, and frustration is growing among supporters, with many questioning Selles’ tactical decisions - such as Gustavo Hamer being dropped from the line-up against Ipswich.

Sheffield United’s decision to sack Wilder came under scrutiny after missing out on the Premier League via the play-offs. Just three months later, the hierarchy could reverse their decision.

Having previously managed the Blades between 2016 and 2021, Wilder returned to Bramall Lane in 2023 before being sacked in June.

Despite Wilder being linked to Leicester City earlier in the summer, the Foxes appointed Marti Cifuentes instead, with the Englishman remaining available.

Position	Points
21. Derby County	2
22. Oxford United	1
23. Sheffield Wednesday	1
24. Sheffield United	0

Championship table as of 9:30am on 13 September.

Danny Rohl ruled out as potential Sheffield United manager

Following Wilder’s initial exit, former scout Mick Brown told Football Insider in June that Sheffield United had considered approaching Danny Rohl, but decided against it due to potential backlash after his stint at Sheffield Wednesday.

Amid growing pressure over Selles after a disastrous start with his position hanging by a thread, the German’s name has been brought up again.

However, reports reveal that Rohl will not be considered as the next Sheffield United manager due to his connections with Sheffield Wednesday.

Now, it appears the club have earmarked their Wilder to steady the ship once again if the hierarchy decides to sack Selles.

Sheffield United

Chris Wilder

Ruben Selles