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Chris Wilder’s departure from Sheffield United took many, including him, by surprise this summer.
Sheffield United have had a summer of change, with new Blades owners, COH Sports, looking towards a change of direction.
Following the bitterly disappointing Championship play-off final defeat to Regis Le Bris’ Sunderland, the Sheffield United higher-ups decided to relieve Chris Wilder of his duties.
This change of direction saw Sheffield United turn towards Ruben Selles following his shock sacking from Hull City.
Wilder has since reacted to the decision made by the Sheffield United owners, one which he did not see coming.
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Chris Wilder was left surprised by decision to be sacked by Sheffield United
Sheffield United responded brilliantly to their relegation from the Premier League in the season prior, having competed for the entire campaign with Leeds United and Burnley.
After falling at the final hurdle on the Wembley stage, many expected and assumed that Chris Wilder would be handed the opportunity of another season, but in surprising fashion, he was replaced by the Portuguese coach Ruben Selles.
Wilder reflected on the club’s decision when speaking to Sky Sports, having said: “It stings, of course it does, and I wasn’t expecting it, but these things happen and you have to move on.
“I wish the club all the best – it’s a club I had a fantastic journey with on two spells.”
Wilder also noted the difficulties that the club had to face last season, noting that he was stunned by the decision despite delivering a successful league campaign.
Pressure will be on Ruben Selles to improve on Chris Wilder’s tenure
After the sacking of Chris Wilder from Sheffield United, COH Sports have clearly made a statement of intent this season that promotion to the Premier League is expected.
There will be hope that Ruben Selles can improve on the 2024/25 season, and the supporters will expect that as well after the ownership’s decision this summer to move Wilder on.
The issue is, Sheffield United’s hierarchy arguably hasn’t backed Selles in the summer transfer window, making them weaker than last season. With the remaining time in the window, hopefully, Sheffield United are able to bring in plenty of extra talent so Selles can deliver on the lofty expectations of the board.