AI predicts which player from all 24 EFL Championship clubs is most likely to become a manager | OneFootball

Which Championship players does AI think we will see in the dugout over time?

The Championship is currently home to a rather nice blend of highly-rated homegrown managers and head coaches, as well as several who can call upon years of experience.

The likes of Kieran McKenna, Chris Davies and John Mousinho are just a trio who come under the first category when it comes to second tier bosses, whilst Chris Wilder, Mark Robins and Phil Parkinson are others who find themselves at the opposite end of the managerial spectrum.

In recent times, we have seen some of the country's best-performing or high-profile players try their hand in management to varying levels of success, with it being debated whether the likes of Wayne Rooney will be found in an EFL or Premier League dugout ever again.

Across the 24 squads currently making up the Championship, though, there are plenty of players known for setting the standard when it comes to performance levels in training and on a matchday.

With that being said, FLW asked AI to name a player from each club who is the most likely to forge a career in management, and here are the picks.

Birmingham City - Jack Robinson

Beginning this list is one of Birmingham City's summer recruits, Jack Robinson.

Having previously worn the armband on several occasions for Sheffield United and making over 260 Championship appearances, AI cites the Liverpudlian's experience and leadership abilities as the main reason for this particular pick, albeit the 32-year-old has had a mixed start to life at St. Andrew's @ Knighthead Park.

Blackburn Rovers - Aynsley Pears

A surprise selection from the current Blackburn Rovers camp is goalkeeper, Aynsley Pears.

The 27-year-old hasn't featured for the club since April and was free to leave Rovers in the summer, but has remained at Ewood Park following the conclusion of the summer transfer window.

Regardless, AI believes Pears would make a good manager due to his analytical outlook on the game, which comes through studying opposition patterns of play as a shot-stopper and knowing when to be alert.

Bristol City - Jason Knight

Next up is Jason Knight of Bristol City.

The 24-year-old has been tipped by many to have a Premier League career in the future, whilst AI predicts a managerial role for the Republic of Ireland international.

Being one of the division's most well-rounded midfielders, AI believes Knight will have a strong tactical focus and strong leadership qualities to complement his vision.

Charlton Athletic - Greg Docherty

Charlton Athletic captain Greg Docherty isn't the most surprising of picks, in fairness.

The Glaswegian is consistently the drawer of praise for his combativeness and professionalism, which is exactly why he shoulders the armband for the Addicks, as well as previously fighting off high-profile names for a starting berth at Hull City.

All of the above traits are exactly what's required to forge a successful managerial career too.

Coventry City - Ben Wilson

Similarly, Ben Wilson is arguably the most senior player inside the Coventry City dressing room.

As such, AI predicts the 33-year-old to make a strong manager or head coach, largely down to the respect he has earned from opposition managers and players, as well as his own teammates, which is a non-negotiable in order to succeed in the dugout.

Derby County - Corey Blackett-Taylor

Another surprise inclusion is Corey Blackett-Taylor of Derby County.

The 28-year-old is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury. However, AI believes he could be putting his spare time to good use by studying the game in order to make a managerial breakthrough in the years to come.

It is predicted that Blackett-Taylor's position as a winger allows him to see the game from a rather unique angle that would make his sides exciting to watch, as well as adaptable depending on the opposition.

Hull City - Regan Slater

AI believes Regan Slater's versatility makes him the most likely candidate from the Hull City ranks.

The 26-year-old has featured in several midfield roles and at full-back for the Tigers in recent years, proving a really useful 'utility' option as such with a strong work rate.

It's the aforementioned trait, as well as a strong 'football brain' that makes him standout from his peers on this front, based on AI's claims.

Ipswich Town - Leif Davis

Leif Davis is the current Ipswich Town man tipped to emulate the aforementioned McKenna, according to AI.

The 25-year-old has been integral to the Tractor Boys' recent resurgence in both an attacking and defensive sense, which included a stunning total of 20 goal contributions during the promotion-winning season of 2023/24.

As such, it has been claimed that Davis' intelligence in how to perform between and in both boxes makes him stand out from the crowd.

Leicester City - Hamza Choudhury

Hamza Choudhury is a rather underrated figure at Leicester City, with the 28-year-old now fancied to make a successful managerial career.

The Bangladesh international's performances have often gone under the radar, with his presence on the pitch allowing Leicester to be extremely resolute defensively and in midfield.

AI's biggest compliment towards Choudhury, as a result, is his discipline, which would filter down to the rest of his squad.

Middlesbrough - Dael Fry

AI believes Dael Fry is the likeliest to become a manager out of the Middlesbrough squad at present.

With the 28-year-old currently a 'one-club man' at his hometown side, it is predicted that, wherever he was to take up a managerial vacancy, Fry would immerse himself in the culture of the club and get the fans onside.