Former Sheffield Wednesday boss Carlos Carvalhal makes shock managerial switch

Former Sheffield Wednesday boss Carlos Carvalhal has landed a new managerial role. The Portuguese, who guided the Owls to back-to-back Championship play-offs in 2016 and 2017 ,has joined Middle Eastern side Al Wahda.

Despite interest from Blackburn Rovers, Carvalhal has agreed a one-year contract with the Dubai-based club. Our sister title Lancs Live says the 56-year-old was interviewed by Rovers last week after leaving Portuguese side Braga at the end of his contract.

Carvalhal left Braga this summer, having enjoyed success in both domestic and European football during his 99-game stint with Braga. It was thought Carvalhal was keen on a return to England, having previously managed twice before at Wednesday and Swansea City.

But Carvalhal will head to Al Wahda to continue his managerial career. Al Wahda finished third in the Arabian Gulf League in 2021/22.

A club statement read: "Al Wahda Football Club has contracted Portuguese coach Carlos Carvalhal to lead the first team as of June 2022. The club’s management wishes success to the able coach and his staff and to fulfil the aspirations of the club’s leadership, management and fans."

Blackburn, who finished eighth in the second tier last term, are still on the hunt for Tony Mowbray's successor.