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Frank Lampard handed surprise job opportunity as Chelsea icon gets a second chance
Former Chelsea head coach manager Frank Lampard could be set for a new job.
Ex-Chelsea boss Frank Lampard is reportedly on a shortlist to become the next head coach of the Canada national team. The Premier League Hall of Famer has been out of work since departing Stamford Bridge at the end of last season, but could be set for a switch to international football.
The Telegraph claim that the Canadian football federation have placed Lampard on a shortlist to take over as head coach and lead them at the 2026 World Cup. Canada have qualified as hosts, with Mauro Biello the current interim boss after John Herdman resigned to take over at Toronto FC.
Canada hope to hold discussions with Lampard, who was spotted watching England training under Gareth Southgate for friendlies against Brazil and Belgium last month. The former Derby and Everton manager is open to a return to coaching and the opportunity to reinvent himself after sackings by Chelsea and Everton, but is waiting for the right project and it remains unclear whether he is interested in heading up the Canada national team.
Lampard will be on the touchline alongside uncle Harry Redknapp for Soccer Aid in June, against another Chelsea icon Eden Hazard who is confirmed to play in a World XI.
The 45-year-old played in MLS with New York City at the end of his playing career, joining from Manchester City. But despite his spell in North America, Lampard has not coached outside of England since taking his first job with Derby.
Lampard is said to be keen to return should the right project arise, but has been enjoying life away from football and spending more time with his family. “I’m enjoying being with the family and looking to get back at some point," said Lampard. “Hopefully something comes up that feels right for me, I’m keen to get working again but as I reiterate, I’m enjoying family life.
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“It’s an intense job so when you’re out of it, it’s nice to appreciate being around all my children. You love the job. you understand the rigours of it in the modern day. I’ve enjoyed all the clubs I’ve worked with. They’ve all been big challenges for different reasons. I enjoy working with players, improve players and the team, so let’s see what comes.”
Lampard will be wary of the current Canada set-up, however, after his possible predecessor Herdman pleaded for more resources before quitting the top job.
“We’ve got to figure this out financially,” he said after losing 2-0 to the USA in June. “We’ve got to get serious about winning a World Cup. When you play at home, you get a chance to win it. We’ve brought a World Cup to our country, and we’re not serious about winning it.”