Former Wolves boss spotted at Stamford Bridge amid ‘interest’ in Premier League return

Former Wolverhampton Wanderers head coach Julen Lopetegui was in attendance at Stamford Bridge for Chelsea’s 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa, Birmingham World can exclusively reveal.

The Spaniard, who has recently been said to be holding out for a return to Premier League management as soon as possible, was spotted both entering and leaving a hospitality suite.

Lopetegui watched on as Chelsea lost for a third time in the English top tier this season and Wolves’ rivals, Villa, battled against 10 men to secure their fourth victory.

Mauricio Pochettino is already under pressure in the capital following the disastrous start to the campaign but it’s very unlikely he will be sacked at this stage.

It’s also not expected to be an opportunity that will open up for Lopetegui, although the 57-year-old appears to be making an effort to stay as connected to the Premier League as he can.

Where could Lopetegui end up?

The clubs currently most likely to part ways with their manager are, according to Sky Bet, Sheffield United, Everton and AFC Bournemouth after disappointing results.

Wolves are also on the list but the relationship fallout between Lopetegui and the ownership makes that rather impossible – and it’s probably too early to let Gary O’Neil go.

Sheffield United could be an interesting proposition as it’s definitely below the usual reputation Lopetegui would go for but Paul Heckingbottom is on the verge of the sack.

The Blades suffered a devastating 8-0 thrashing from Newcastle United on Sunday and Heckingbottom is now the 1/4 odds-on favourite to be the next Premier League boss to leave.

Roles at Everton and Bournemouth are definitely a lot further away from being available, though that could potentially change sharpish if poor form continues.