Major twist as Jesse Marsch negotiations with Southampton collapse, with alternative candidate named

Former Leeds manager Jesse Marsch was expected to be appointed at Southampton, but negotiations have now broken down in a shock twist, according to reports. 

Now, it seems that Ruben Selles could be given the role, who is currently the Saints’ caretaker manager and also took charge after Ralph Hassenhuttl was sacked.

Marsch was said to be very excited about taking up the job at St. Mary’s, so these developments will come as a considerable blow to him and his entourage.

According to journalist Jeremy Wilson, who works for the Telegraph, it was the length of the American’s proposed contract which led to the deal collapsing.

On Twitter, he wrote: “Talks between Southampton and Jesse Marsch have broken down. Club not keen on a long-term contract given current situation.

“Ruben Selles to take Chelsea game and club still see him as a viable longer-term option, potentially with a more experienced coach [alongside him].”

As mentioned, Selles worked as an assistant under Ralph Hassenhuttl, before being appointed as a caretaker manager after the German was sacked.

Now, after the recent departure of Nathan Jones, Selles has once again taken charge, initially on a temporary basis, but according to Wilson it now looks likely he will be given the role for the remainder of the season.

Given the Saints are currently rock-bottom of the Premier League table after picking up just 15 points from 22 matches this season, he has a major challenge ahead to get them to safety.

Marsch deal breakdown may be blessing in disguise for Saints

Marsch was only sacked by Leeds United in early February after failing to pick up enough results, with the Whites now facing their own battle with relegation.

With that in mind, it could be a positive for Southampton that talks have broken down, considering they need someone who can improve their results instantly.

Considering Marsch failed to win a single game in his last seven outings during his time at Elland Road, Saints’ fans had major doubts over whether he was the right man for the job.

Admittedly though, Marsch did help the Whites to avoid the drop last season after replacing Marcelo Bielsa, so he does have it in his locker.

As per Wilson’s report, the American wanted a long-term contract at Southampton, which wasn’t in the club’s interests considering it looks likely that they will be relegated to the Championship.

It is believed that the south coast club offered a six-month contract to Marsch, but he wanted a much longer deal.

Marsch met the club’s hierarchy on Wednesday and after talks went on for several hours, both parties eventually agreed to walk away.

Whether or not Selles is now given the job for the remainder of the campaign is yet to be seen – but he will definitely take charge of Southampton for their clash against Chelsea on Saturday.

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