Chris Wilder reign over at Sheff Utd as manager leaves by mutual consent
Chris Wilder has left Sheffield United by mutual consent, the Premier League’s basement club have confirmed.
Speculation had mounted over Wilder’s future on Friday, when the Premier League club’s media duties were cancelled.
Wilder, who enjoyed great success after taking charge of his boyhood club in 2016 and guiding them from League One to the top flight, leaves with the Blades bottom of the Premier League.
Tensions between Wilder and club owner Abdullah Bin Musa’ad Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud have heightened recently.
Only last week, Wilder stated he did not know if he would still be in charge next season, despite confirming he wanted to remain at Bramall Lane if the board and owners “stick to the plan”.
Saturday’s statement said the mutual decision had been made “following discussions”.
Wilder said in quotes published on the club website: “Being manager of Sheffield United has been a special journey and one I’ll never forget.
“I was delighted to be given the opportunity back in 2016 and have been delighted with the success which we have achieved, including two promotions and a highest ever Premier League finish.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has contributed to the club’s accomplishments along the way, including the players, staff and, in particular, the supporters.”
Who replaces Chris Wilder at Sheffield United?
Speaking on Soccer Saturday, Lee Hendrie says he thought Chris Wilder could bring Sheffield United back up next season and doesn't know who can replace him without 'ripping the roots out'.
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No replacement for Wilder yet
Reports earlier on Saturday evening suggested once Wilder’s exit had been confirmed, United would look to make an interim appointment until the end of the season.
There was, though, no confirmation of who would be in charge of the team for Sunday’s Premier League match at Leicester.
A club statement read: “We are confident that all Blades fans around the world will join us in thanking Chris for his hard work, commitment and expertise in driving the club.
“Now the club will turn its attention to completing the season as strongly as possible and if we are relegated, to preparing for the Championship.
“We confirm our intention to keep the core of the player group together and will continue to invest further in the academy and the first team, to place us in the best possible position for the future.”